Millions of UK motorists without driveways set for major benefits with new announcement

Kerbo Charge is one of the UK's largest providers of cross-pavement charging solutions for motorists who do not have access to off-street parking.

The solution allows drivers to install a small gulley from their homes across the pavement and to their cars, which could apply to millions of households across the country.

Data from Vauxhall shows that 42 per cent of councils will have cross-pavement charging available by the end of the year.

In total, 56 councils across England, Scotland and Wales either currently offer or plan to offer the charging solution by late 2026.

According to research included in a Freedom of Information request, seven councils have live cross-pavement charging schemes available.

A further 21 councils are in a trial stage, while 28 local authorities plan to roll out services at some point this year.

Eurig Druce, MD of Vauxhall and group managing director of Stellantis UK, said cross-pavement charging was a "great way" for motorists to switch to EVs, even if they cannot charge on a driveway.

He added: "To allow drivers across the country to feel confident going electric, councils need to ensure they are providing drivers with as much clarity as possible about the options available to them, and how they can install EV charging outside their door.

"We are looking forward to working with Kerbo Charge to help even more drivers access practical charging solutions near them, and support councils on their own journeys to help more local residents to go electric."

Some councils have gone further by removing costs associated with the installation of the charging gulley for interested motorists.

Cross-pavement charging was given the green light in June last year in Northern Ireland, with hundreds of electric car owners already making use of the scheme.

Data from the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) shows that drivers are often left frustrated when they are not provided with clear information on charging options available to them at home.

There have also been some concerns around councils charging more than £1,000 for cross-pavement charging gulleys to be installed.

Vauxhall is offering new electric vehicle buyers £500 off Kerbo Charge installation through its "Electric All In" offer.

Michael Goulden, co-founder and CEO of Kerbo Charge, said: "Millions of residents across the UK with on-street parking will be delighted they can take £500 off the cost of their cross-pavement channel and fully charge their new Vauxhall at home for less than £5.

"We're delighted to be partnering with Vauxhall - this is going to make a huge difference to EV adoption in the UK."

Kerbo Charge research found that 53 per cent of drivers would only get an electric car if they could charge their vehicles at home.

The company also secured an investment from Deborah Meaden on the hit BBC show Dragons' Den in February 2024 to accelerate the growth of the business.