The upcoming October Budget, to be delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, presents a critical opportunity for the Labour government to significantly advance the UK’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. With Labour’s strong focus on green energy and the environment, this Budget is expected to lay the groundwork for accelerating the deployment of DC fast chargers across the country. These high-speed chargers are vital for ensuring that the UK is equipped to meet its 2030 target of banning new petrol and diesel cars while supporting the growing number of EV drivers.
One of the most anticipated measures in the Budget is increased government investment in EV infrastructure, particularly DC fast chargers. Unlike slower AC chargers, which take hours to fully charge a vehicle, DC chargers can replenish 80% of an EV battery in 20-30 minutes. This rapid charging capability is essential for drivers who need quick top-ups, especially on long journeys. The Labour government, which has pledged to make the UK a global leader in green technology, is likely to focus on ensuring that a comprehensive and reliable network of fast chargers is in place, especially along motorways, in cities, and in underserved rural areas.
Chancellor Reeves is expected to announce a significant boost to public funding for charging infrastructure as part of the Labour Party’s broader commitment to tackling climate change. This could include grants to local authorities to build charging hubs, as well as direct investment in expanding the network. By increasing access to DC fast chargers, the government can make EVs more practical for daily use, helping to alleviate “range anxiety”—the fear of running out of battery power—and encourage more drivers to switch to electric vehicles.
In addition to direct investment, the private sector could see new incentives to contribute to the charging network. The October Budget may introduce tax breaks or subsidies for businesses willing to install DC chargers at locations such as retail parks, service stations, and urban centres. Encouraging private sector involvement will be key to rapidly scaling up the country’s charging infrastructure. Labour’s focus on public-private collaboration could help ensure that businesses and local councils work together to make fast charging more widely available.
A crucial component of expanding the charging network will be upgrading the UK’s power grid to handle the higher demand from DC fast chargers, which require more power than standard chargers. Without these grid improvements, the large-scale rollout of DC chargers could overwhelm local electricity supplies. Labour’s commitment to investing in green infrastructure includes the potential for substantial funding for grid upgrades, ensuring that the country’s electrical system is ready to support a growing EV fleet.
An emerging trend that may see more attention in this Budget is the use of ad-based media on EV chargers. Advertising on charging points offers a new revenue stream for businesses and local authorities that host these stations. By displaying digital advertisements while drivers charge their vehicles, operators can generate income, which can help offset the costs of installing and maintaining the chargers. This model could attract further investment into the DC fast charging market, creating a sustainable business model while also enhancing the charging experience for consumers.
