The European Union (EU) is pushing forward with its ambitious plans to transition to electric vehicles (EVs) by accelerating the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This report provides an overview of the current state of public charging infrastructure across the EU and outlines key strategies for driving progress in this critical area.
Despite significant progress in recent years, the EU still faces challenges in scaling up its public charging infrastructure to meet growing demand. At the end of 2023, there were 632,423 public charging points across Europe, falling far short of the 3.5 million target set by the European Commission for 2030.
The majority of public charging points in Europe are equipped with Type 2 and Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors, capable of delivering various charging speeds. However, fast chargers, with a capacity of more than 22 kW, make up only a fraction of the total.
While AC chargers are suitable for slow charging, DC chargers are essential for fast charging, particularly along major highways. However, only a small percentage of public charging points in the EU are capable of fast charging, highlighting the need for further investment in this area.
The deployment of public charging points has not kept pace with the rapid growth in battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales. Between 2017 and 2023, electric car sales increased over 18 times, while the number of public chargers grew merely sixfold during the same period.
A GLOBAL COMPARISON
China
China leads the world in public charging infrastructure, with a network that far surpasses that of Europe. However, differences in charger capacity and vehicle technology make direct comparisons challenging.
US
The US is also making significant strides in EV charging infrastructure, supported by various incentives and government initiatives. As of May 2023, the US had over 138,100 charging outlets for battery and plug-in electric vehicles.
Range anxiety and the availability of charging infrastructure remain key concerns for consumers considering electric vehicles. Accelerating the deployment of public charging points will be crucial in overcoming these barriers and driving the widespread adoption of EVs in Europe.
Swift implementation of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) and robust monitoring systems will be essential for ensuring that EU member states meet their infrastructure targets and support the transition to electric mobility.
Overall, while challenges remain, there is a clear path forward for accelerating the roll-out of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the EU, paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system.
