Introduction
If you’ve been thinking about switching to an electric car, you’ve probably wondered whether the UK’s charging network is finally keeping pace with demand. The good news is the picture’s improving fast and there’s plenty happening nationally and locally to give EV drivers more confidence than ever.
A Charging Boom Across the UK
The UK now has over 85,000 public EV charging devices and the network’s growing at one of its fastest rates yet. We’re seeing thousands of new chargers installed every year, with rapid and ultra rapid devices increasing the quickest. That means faster top ups, easier long distance journeys and a much more convenient ownership experience overall.
For anyone looking at a new or used electric car, this switch is getting easier. It means better access to charging, more flexibility and far less range anxiety.
Why this Matters for New and Used EV Buyers
More Confident Long Distance Driving
With more rapid and ultra rapid chargers popping up across the UK, it’s easier to grab a quick top up on the go. Road trips feel simpler and charging becomes less of a worry for first time EV owners.
Better Everyday Convenience
Around half of all public charge points are now located at places like car parks, hotels and shopping centres. So even if you’re out for a weekly food shop or grabbing a coffee, you can top up your car at the same time.
More Options if you don’t have a Driveway
The growing number of on street chargers means drivers without home parking aren’t left behind. This opens the door to EV ownership for a much wider group of people.
Local Charging Network: What’s Going on in Crewe & Cheshire East
If you live or work near Crewe, there’s more good news. The local charging network is accelerating quickly, thanks to major investment and a growing mix of everyday, rapid and ultra rapid public charge points.
Big Investment Arriving Locally
Cheshire East Council has secured £2.3 million to roll out around 175 new changing locations across the borough. This funding is supporting on street charging, car park installations and improvements in areas where off street parking is limited. It’s a big step forward for EV drivers in Crewe and the wider area.
Public Chargers Already Available in Crewe
Drivers can already access a good mix of local charge points, including:
- Crewe Multi Storey Car Park - A handy spot with 7 kW AC chargers
- Middlewich Road Car Park - Offering both 7 kW and 22 kW charging
- InstaVolt Ultra-Rapid Hub - Located on Dunwoody Way (near Morrisons), perfect for quick 160 kW charging
- Rapid DC chargers near Crewe Train Station - A great option for commuters needing a fast, reliable charging point
These sites give local EV drivers reliable places to charge both at home and during the day, whether they’re shopping, commuting or travelling across Cheshire.
What’s Still Improving?
While the network’s growing at pace, there are still areas to watch:
- Many public chargers are still lower powered
- Some regions remain better served than others
- Reliability and maintenance of rapid chargers will be key
- Most charging still happens at home or work, so public coverage continues to evolve
Even so, the direction of travel is clear, more chargers, more power and more convenience for drivers.
The Road Ahead: Is the UK Catching Up?
Yes and quickly! New investment, private sector growth and strong policy support are all helping the UK accelerate towards a more complete charging network. For drivers in Crewe and across Cheshire, the combination of national rollout and local investment means owning an EV is getting easier every month.
Whether you’re browsing new electric models or exploring a used EV, you’ve now got far more charging support around you than a few years ago.