Everything Uber drivers need to know about EV charging stations

The EV industry has witnessed spectacular growth in recent years, with thousands drivers choosing to make the switch. EVs are now most PCO drivers’ first choice, proving to be the most cost effective option for ridesharing.

Although range has improved over time, reaching over 300 miles for certain EV models, range anxiety can still be a concern for drivers. 

Fortunately, in the UK, there is an extensive EV charging network all around the country with over 70,000 public charging devices, making it easier than ever for PCO drivers to stay charged. There is also the possibility of having a home charger and even obtaining Government funding for installing one. 

Charging an EV is just a matter of habit. Once you’re familiar with how and where to charge, filling up your EV will become as easy as charging your mobile phone. Here is everything you need to know about EV charging. 

How can I find EV charging stations in the UK?

Zap-Map

Zap-Map is a useful app for searching available charging points. It allows you to see where the nearest charging station is and offer live updates for other EV drivers. Zap-Map to EV charging is similar to what Waze is for traffic — a trustworthy road-side assistant. 

For London, the authorities have implemented a charging points map where you can live-check charging stations. You can filter them by operator, charging type, and operation time. 

Zap-Map integrates new TfL rapid points with live status updates every 5 minutes

Where can I charge my EV in the UK?

There are mainly two types of charging that you can use — public and at-home charging. While public charging is available to anyone and can be free, setting up home charging might be a hassle, but it’s more convenient in the long run. 

Public charging networks 

London offers an extensive public charging network. Key operators include:

• Source London: A popular choice for PCO drivers, offering subscription plans with discounted rates and a mix of slow and fast chargers.

• Ubitricity: Leveraging lampposts for convenient on-street charging.

• bp pulse: A strong presence in London with rapid charging options at competitive prices.

• InstaVolt: Reliable rapid chargers, perfect for quick top-ups.

• Pod Point: Located at supermarkets, car parks, and leisure centers.

There is a great variety of charging networks across the UK. Choosing the one that works best for you depends mainly on your area of interest, plus the costs, the charger speed and the location type. 

At home charging

Purchasing and installing the charging unit might get expensive, but it’s definitely the best long term solution. You can charge your car overnight and save plenty of time and money. Home chargers can be either 3 kW or 7 Kw. The installing cost varies between £600 and £1,000.

The UK Government’s EV Chargepoint Grant also offers up to £350 towards installation for eligible drivers living in rental properties or flats.

To access this grant, you have to live in a rental accommodation or own a flat, and have a dedicated off street parking at your property. 

How much does it cost to charge my EV?

First of all, charging costs vary depending on car model, charger speed and other fees, such as provider fees. 

To get an idea of how much it costs to charge your car, you can use Zap-Map’s online calculators.

• Public charging calculator

• Home charging calculator

Here’s an example of charging rates, using the MG 5 EV for reference. 

^{*The costs are calculated for an 80% charge, they're approximate and subject to change.}

Can I charge my EV for free?

Yes. 15% of all charging stations in the UK are free. Even better — most of these are fast chargers. You can find free charging points in supermarkets, public, retail or work car parks and at leisure attractions, such as cafes, restaurants, museums, theaters.

Keep in mind that some of these charging points may request a parking fee or can be customer-only. It’s still worth looking into the using conditions and see if you can ever rely on these stations.

TIP: You can locate them on zap-map by selecting 'free to use' within the payment filter. 

How long does it take for my EV to charge?

There are three main types of public EV charge points: slow (3kW), fast (7kW), and rapid (50kW). There are also around 8,000 rapid and ultra-rapid charging points (100kW+) across the UK, these being much faster, but with higher charging costs. 

Home charging units can only be slow (3kW) or fast (7kW). 

These are the estimated charging times for the MG 5 EV using different types of charging: 

For busy PCO drivers, rapid and ultra-rapid chargers are ideal for minimising downtime.

What do I need to charge my EV?

You have to own an EV charging connector compatible with your car model and find charging stations compatible with your connector.

DID YOU KNOW? Not all car models can use rapid charges.

Why EVs are perfect for PCO drivers in London

• Cost Savings: EVs are exempt from ULEZ and Congestion Charges, saving up to £27.50 daily.

• Increased Earnings: Gain access to Uber Green fares, earning up to 15% more per trip.

• Convenience: London’s robust charging infrastructure supports smooth operations for professional drivers.

At Splend, we make the transition to EVs seamless for London’s PCO drivers. Our flexible, all-inclusive EV subscription plans include insurance, maintenance, and expert support, so you can drive with confidence.

Ready to go electric? Explore Splend’s EV solutions tailored for London PCO drivers.

About Splend

At Splend, we believe in drivers. We know their vehicles need to work harder than most; that they drive more miles than most; that their insurance is hefty; their maintenance costs high and that they can face unreasonable finance rates – which is a heavy load to carry on their own.

That’s why at Splend, we exist to support rideshare drivers with a new model, that takes all those car ownership costs, and provides them for less, with lower purchase prices, better rates, lower servicing and insurance costs – all for one weekly repayment, all in one place.