The LowCVP and EA Technology have launched a new EV Network (EVN) group which will bring together key stakeholders from the low carbon automotive and electricity supply sectors with the aim of ensuring that rapid electric vehicle uptake is not constrained by its impacts on the UK’s power grid.

The EVN group has been set up to enable a rapid but smooth transition to a low carbon vehicle future.

The initiative aims to drive forward solutions that will allow the rapid uptake of electric vehicles while minimising impacts and costs for the UK electricity distribution network.

It will act as a focal point to address both technological and infrastructural needs, sharing research and recommending the optimal measures to increase the number of UK electric miles by 2030.

The group will also introduce consumer voices, facilitating dialogue between key stakeholders and acting as a conduit for information to and from the UK Government.

It has been formed following discussions with representatives of the wide range of communities engaged in the electric vehicle transition including: the Government’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV); the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders; Ofgem; the Energy Networks Association; the AA; Citizens Advice; Energy UK; Innovate UK; BEAMA; Transport for London; the Institution of Engineering and Technology; the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and wider automotive and utilities sector organisations. 

The EV Network Group was founded jointly by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership and EA Technology.

It is intended to build on the results and learning from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks’ My Electric Avenue project, which EA Technology managed and delivered.

That project identified the need for enhanced cross-sector collaboration to facilitate the optimal growth of electric vehicles while minimising impacts our electricity networks. 

A key role for the Group will be to ensure the effective sharing and dissemination of activity currently under way, investigating and communicating how transport and energy systems can develop together in the most harmonious way possible. 

The Group will be co-chaired by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership and EA Technology with the Partnership providing core secretariat functions. Stakeholders will be invited to engage through a structured communications platform. 

Andy Eastlake, managing director of The LowCVP, said: “Electrification of a wide range of transport applications is one of the clearest opportunities in terms of delivering carbon and other emissions reductions.

"Making sure low carbon electricity is generated, distributed and delivered into these highly efficient vehicles where and when they need it represents both a challenge and an opportunity, and one in which we believe that the UK can lead the way.” 

Dan Hollingworth, Head of Delivery at EA Technology said: “The EV Network Group is happening at the right time for UK plc.

"There is great appetite from the distribution network operators and related utilities, as well as customer representatives, Government and of course EV charging point and automotive sector and related supply chains, to collaborate on this new initiative.

"We all have customers’ best interests at heart and will work to pave the way for a smart low carbon transport future.”