The Midlands has secured over £40 million in government investment for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Thirteen local authorities across the Midlands, supported by Midlands Connect, have received £40.8 million from the Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund to roll out thousands of chargers across the region.
There are already over 10,000 public chargers already available across the Midlands, with today's announcement enabling more drivers across the Midlands easy access to charging near their home.
Future of roads minister, Lilian Greenwood, said: "Making charging as seamless and as easy as possible is crucial to making the switch to electric a success and rolling out over 16,000 chargers across the Midlands will make driving an EV cheaper and easier, especially for those without a driveway.
"Electric vehicles will power growth, cut emissions and improve lives in the Midlands and beyond as we continue to deliver our Plan for Change."
The new chargepoints will boost charging infrastructure across the Midlands, including in smaller towns and rural areas.
Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, said: "We are delighted that our collaboration with local authorities has resulted in a significant funding boost for electric vehicle infrastructure across the region.
"This is a great step in moving towards a reliable electric vehicle charging infrastructure network across the Midlands, which will become increasingly important as we move closer to the 2035 ban on diesel and petrol vehicles.
"We will continue to work with local authorities to accelerate the roll-out of electric vehicle infrastructure across the Midlands."
Councillor Marc Bayliss, Worcestershire County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "I’m pleased that Worcestershire, alongside other local authorities, has been successful in this bid for significant funding towards boosting electric vehicle infrastructure.
"It’s hoped, that installing more public charge points , will not only support those who already have an electric vehicle, but also encourage others to make the move towards purchasing one."
