Drivers in the UK are advocating for new road signs to accompany the changing landscape of electric vehicles on the roads. According to a recent survey, three out of four potential electric vehicle (EV) drivers believe that public chargers should be clearly marked with green signage to help them stand out. The current signs that point to the location of chargers feature the traditional blue P parking symbol, but many drivers feel that distinctive green signage would make it easier to identify charging points. The survey, which involved 8,268 AA members considering purchasing an EV in the future, found that over half of the respondents supported the idea of having totem pole pricing boards at chargers, similar to fuel forecourts.
The Head of Roads Policy at the AA, Jack Cousens, emphasised the importance of making small yet effective changes to the charging infrastructure to improve visibility and accessibility for EV drivers. He noted that many charging units are currently ‘hiding in plain sight’ and highlighted the potential benefits of introducing a green P symbol to highlight the network of chargers. Quentin Willson, a motoring expert and founder of FairCharge, expressed concerns about the lack of clear EV charging signage in the UK compared to other European countries. He cited outdated highways legislation and contracts with food and coffee operators as obstacles to implementing visible charging signage on motorways.
Willson highlighted the need for clear signage not only to support current EV drivers but also to reassure non-EV drivers about the existing infrastructure. Despite the UK’s efforts to increase the number of public charge points, the lack of clear signage on road networks has been a growing concern. The government, in response to these issues, acknowledged the necessity of improving awareness of the expanding charging network. They mentioned that drivers can currently locate charge points using various apps and that signs with an EV symbol are already in use, with plans to enhance signage for charging facilities along major roads.
The debate around EV road signage reflects the ongoing shift towards sustainable transportation and the challenges that come with this transition. As the number of EVs on the roads continues to rise, it becomes crucial to address infrastructure concerns to support and encourage more drivers to make the switch to electric. By advocating for clearer and more visible charging signage, drivers hope to create a more EV-friendly environment that promotes the use of electric vehicles as a viable and accessible transportation option.
The call for new road signs to accommodate the changing electric car landscape in the UK is part of a larger conversation about sustainability and the future of transportation. With the government acknowledging the need for improved signage for EV charging facilities, there is potential for positive changes to enhance the visibility and accessibility of electric vehicle infrastructure across the country. As technology advances and more drivers consider making the switch to electric vehicles, clear and informative road signage will play a crucial role in supporting this shift and encouraging the widespread adoption of EVs.