In a bid to help accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs), Gemserv has launched a consultation on an industry-wide governance framework, with support from the likes of Energy UK and Eon.
The electric vehicle governance framework (EVGF) will, Gemserv claims, boost confidence in EVs, address market failures and provide a forum to engage market players.
Gemserv suggests the framework along with “light-touch” regulation will better support the transition to EVs to address wider challenges and help the UK meet air quality and climate change targets, rather than relying solely on legislation to deliver market governance.
Figures published by the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy show that since 2011, more than 170,000 battery electric, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell electric vehicles have been registered in the UK and ultra low emission vehicles made up 1.8 per cent of all new car sales in 2017.
They further indicate that charge points are being installed at a rate of over 500 per month.
Despite this the uptake of EVs remains slow, with EVs making up just 0.7 per cent of the market, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Trevor Hutchings, director of strategy and communications at Gemserv, said: “The uptake of EVs needs to accelerate significantly for the UK to meet air quality and climate change targets.
“The challenges facing those in the market are complex and significant, and require sustained action in order to achieve a swift and viable transition to EVs.
“Rather than relying on government intervention, this is an opportunity for industry to step-up and grip the issues holding back the EV market, and to reap the economic benefits from a world-leading transition to low carbon transport.
“We are calling on all organisations across the EV market to respond to our ideas and determine the best approach.”
An Energy UK spokesperson said: “Large changes are taking place on our roads. As electric vehicles become an increasingly common sight, the energy industry is working hard to ensure drivers have the confidence to make the switch to a greener mode of transport.
“Energy UK has welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with Gemserv to establish common rules and standards to help the market operate more efficiently, champion innovation, and ensure appropriate consumer protections.”
The EVGF comprises a set of common rules, for example in sharing data and smart charging, in order to help the market operate more efficiently.
The consultation is open to anyone involved with EVs in any capacity.
Responses are required by 18 April and should be sent to strategy@gemserv.com.