The UK’s roads are changing faster than many people realise. Recent government and industry data shows that public electric vehicle chargers now outnumber traditional petrol pumps across the country. Marking a significant milestone in Britain’s transition to cleaner transport. For businesses and drivers alike, this transformation has big implications, none more so than for those looking into electric vehicle hire, electric cars and EV rental options.
At the heart of this shift is growth in charging infrastructure that has left fuel pumps in the rear‑view mirror. Latest figures from transport analysts reveal there are now over 116,000 public charging connectors across the UK. In comparison to an estimated 60,800 petrol pumps at forecourts nationwide. That means, for the first time, electric vehicle chargers outnumber traditional fuelling points by almost two to one.
What This Charger Milestone Means
So what does it mean when there are more EV chargers than petrol pumps? On a basic level, it is a sign that the infrastructure needed to support widespread use of electric vehicles is increasingly in place. Drivers and businesses can now plan journeys and operations with less anxiety about finding a place to power up. In practical terms that means:
- More convenience, as chargers are located at shopping centres, car parks, workplaces and along major roads. Allowing topping up in many locations beyond petrol stations.
- Confidence for longer trips, as rapid and ultra-rapid chargers are spreading. Ensuring electric cars and vans can recharge quickly on longer journeys.
- Greater EV adoption, as more chargers lower the barriers to choosing an electric vehicle over a petrol or diesel one.
This growth does not mean petrol vehicles have vanished, but it shows that the UK’s charging network has expanded rapidly in recent years and continues to grow.
Why Infrastructure Growth Matters for EV Drivers
For drivers of electric cars and businesses considering EV fleets, the charging network’s expansion is hugely important. The rapid growth in public-facing chargers makes owning or hiring an electric vehicle more practical than ever before.
The charging network now includes tens of thousands of devices of varying speeds. From slower chargers suitable for destination charging at shops or offices, to rapid and ultra-rapid chargers capable of delivering a sizeable boost in range in a short stop. This variety allows drivers to charge where and how it suits them. Whether topping up while shopping or fuelling up quickly on a long journey.
As infrastructure grows, so does confidence. Even though charging often takes longer than filling up a tank with petrol, improvements in fast charging and expanded coverage mean the difference is shrinking every year.
Electric Vehicle Hire – A More Practical Choice Than Ever
With this supportive charging backdrop, there has never been a better time to consider electric vehicle hire in the UK. Whether a short-term EV rental for a weekend trip, a week’s trial of electric motoring, or a long-term solution for business travel, the flexibility and convenience of electric vehicle hire are now matched by a charging network ready for the challenge.
How EVision Helps You Make the Switch
At EVision Electric Vehicles, we make it easy to access the right electric car, van or commercial vehicle for your needs. With a nationwide fleet of more than 2,000 all-electric vehicles, we offer:
- Short-term rentals starting from just one day
- Long-term hires for business or personal use
- Multi-vehicle discounts for organisations moving larger parts of their fleet to electric
The fleet includes a variety of electric cars, trucks and vans to suit personal and business journeys. From nimble city electric cars ideal for urban driving to robust commercial vans suitable for deliveries, events or work fleets, EVision ensures customers have access to the latest in electric mobility.
Hiring an electric vehicle through EVision allows customers to benefit not just from zero-tailpipe emissions but also from the convenience of a charging network that is rapidly growing to meet demand.
Electric Cars and EV Rental – A Growing Option
Electric cars are no longer niche. More people are turning to electric vehicles for everyday use because of environmental concerns, lower running costs and the confidence that comes from knowing a charger is available when needed.
For those not ready to commit to buying, EV rental offers a flexible alternative. Hiring allows you to:
- Test different models before buying
- Use an electric vehicle for specific trips without the costs of ownership
- Provide electric transport for staff or visitors without investing in a fleet
With a charging network that now exceeds the number of petrol pumps, EV rental is more practical, accessible and stress-free than ever before.
What the Future Holds
The UK government has set ambitious targets to transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles entirely by 2030. With bans on new sales approaching each year. The fact that chargers now outnumber pumps is not only symbolic of progress, it provides a practical foundation for the next stage of the transition. Analysts predict continued investment and infrastructure expansion as electric vehicles become the norm rather than the exception.
Choosing electric vehicle hire now makes sense for everyday drivers and businesses who want flexibility, cost savings and sustainability.
Ready to Switch to Electric?
The shift from petrol to electric may have felt slow, but the facts are clear. Public electric vehicle chargers in the UK have now surpassed petrol pumps, and the infrastructure to support electric driving is expanding quickly. For people and businesses considering electric cars or EV rental, this growth helps answer many of the questions that may have held them back.
As roads and attitudes continue to change, companies like EVision are helping bridge the gap. Offering practical ways to try electric driving with flexible hire options and expert support. It is an exciting time for electric mobility, and the road ahead is looking greener every day.
Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help with any queries and to guide you through every step of the booking process. You can reach us directly via phone, WhatsApp, or email.
Don’t forget to follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest EV news and special offers:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EVisionEVs/
X: https://twitter.com/EVisionEVs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evisionevs
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@evisionelectricvehicles
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evision-electric-vehicles/
All information correct as of: 24th March 2026.
