Department for Transport unveils new electric vehicle chargepoint design

The UK government has unveiled the new electric vehicle chargepoint design, which it says could become as iconic as the Great British post box.

Showcased in the UK Pavilion at COP26 and designed together with the Royal College of Art and PA Consulting, the Department for Transport (DfT) says the concept “prioritises inclusivity and ease of use, designed with consumers, local government, accessibility groups and industry.”

It added that the design concept will look to provide greater choice to industry and local government, as well as raise awareness and generate excitement around electric vehicles, as we build one of the most convenient, affordable and reliable charging networks in the world.

UK Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “From our roads to the skies, the transition to zero emission transport has reached a tipping point. We know that transport plays a key role saving the planet from warming above 1.5°C, which is why this is the COP that will kick start our ambition for zero emission aviation and why I’m proud to be uniting world leaders to tackle climate change – creating new opportunities for clean growth, green jobs and improved air quality right across the globe.

“To support the transition to EVs, it’s integral that we have the infrastructure to support it. My vision is for the UK to have one of the best EV infrastructure networks in the world, with excellent British design at its heart.”

Professor Clive Grinyer, head of Royal College of Art’s MA Service Design, added: ‘This design is a landmark in our journey to electric vehicles and zero carbon. We have listened to people around the country who asked to have a minimum impact on their streets, to ensure that it works well for disabled and all people and that we bring the UK’s design and engineering talent to create an iconic design that we can all be proud of.’