Four Ways EV Chargers Help Social Mobility
As the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) accelerates, local authorities have the unique opportunity to harness this shift to promote social mobility and support levelling up in their communities.
Here are four ways EV chargers can help ensure that no region is left behind.
1. Reducing Financial Inequality
One of the greatest challenges in the EV transition is the disparity in charging costs between those with and without off-road parking. Residents with driveways can access cheaper overnight EV tariffs, whereas those reliant on public chargers pay much more - up to £1200 annually, according to recent data.
This cost discrepancy can negate the financial benefits of an electric vehicle, and it risks deepening financial inequalities. Expanding affordable and accessible EV charging networks in these communities can ensure that residents are not penalised for their lack of off-road parking and can benefit from the lower running costs of EVs.
2. Better Employment Opportunities
Reliable and affordable transport is essential for accessing jobs, education, and training opportunities. However, the high cost of public EV charging can deter households in deprived areas from switching to electric vehicles. By increasing the availability of cost-effective charging options, local authorities can make EV ownership viable for more residents. This move not only supports greener commuting but also expands access to employment opportunities, particularly for those in areas where public transport may be limited - all while saving on fuel costs.
3. Supporting Cleaner, Healthier Neighbourhoods
Deprived communities often bear the brunt of air pollution caused by older, higher-emission vehicles. Encouraging EV adoption by providing affordable charging infrastructure will result in cleaner air and improved public health. Healthier neighbourhoods will then see better educational outcomes, higher productivity, and reduced healthcare costs - all of which play a role in boosting social mobility.
4. Thinking of Future Generations
Promoting EV adoption is not just about immediate benefits; it’s about creating a sustainable future. Ensuring that all residents, regardless of socioeconomic status, can participate in the EV revolution lays the foundation for long-term equality. Young people growing up in communities with accessible EV infrastructure are more likely to view sustainable living as the norm, giving them the right mindset and tools to thrive in a green economy.
Charge Gully’s mission to unlock cheap and convenient home EV charging for residents without driveways offers a practical and innovative solution for councils looking to tackle these challenges. Our approach focuses on providing affordable overnight charging for all households with on-street parking, addressing the financial and accessibility barriers that hinder EV adoption in deprived areas.
Got a question? Want to find out more? If you can’t find the answer in our FAQs, we’re always here to help!
