Saturday, November 2, 2024
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Study reveals public appetite for EVs grows

Almost half of UK adults expect to drive an EV in the next five years, according to new research.

The new study, undertaken by brewer and pub operator Marston’s and charging firm Osprey questioned 2,001 adults and discovered an accelerating shift towards EVs.

It found almost half (42%) expect to drive an EV in the next five years and 59% would prefer rapid charging compared to other facilities. It also discovered concern about the time it takes to charge (43%) was one of the biggest worries in using an EV.

More than a third (36%) of people would be encouraged to use a public EV charger if there were good quality food and drink facilities at EV charging sites too. Interestingly, 38% are more concerned about air pollution as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The news comes as Marston’s has reached its latest environmental milestone and has completed the installation of rapid EV chargers across 100 pubs in collaboration with Osprey Charging.

The partnership between Marston’s and Osprey began in 2018 when the companies created a private network of 400 rapid EV chargers across 200 pubs.

Andy Kershaw, Head of Property at Marston’s, said: “Sustainability is becoming a key consideration in day to day life, with the demand for EV chargers only increasing. The Marston’s 100th rapid charging site installation represents a significant milestone towards our goal to become the UK’s most environmentally efficient pub business.”

The 50kW rapid charging stations across 100 Marston’s pubs, enable drivers to fully charge within as little as half an hour and are easy to use with contactless payment, no membership necessary. Each charge point is powered using 100% renewable electricity and are compatible with every EV on the market today.

Since the roll out began, over 180 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been saved and over 20,000 user sessions have taken place. The full roll out is due to be completed by 2022.

Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey, said: “With the ban on the sales of new petrol and diesel cars less than 10 years away, it’s crucial to support EV drivers with the infrastructure that they want – rapid, convenient and accessible to all. Our partnership with Marston’s will continue to meet the needs of EV drivers and allow them to enjoy great food and drink facilities while they top up.”

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