PUBLIC EV charging network is set to showcase its new charge point space design at the Fully Charged Live show. The concept will display accessible charging bays, tackling accessibility issues commonly found across the industry.
Osprey Charging’s stand will feature a full-size dual charging bay, including two of the network’s latest charging units and a Honda e.
Calls have increased from customers with mobility requirements for more accessible charging bays across the UK. Public charging infrastructure tends to allow more than a single parking space’s worth of area for the charging their EV.
However, there are no specific requirements that are taken into consideration, and the likes of cramped spaces, kerbs, charging controls placed high on the unit, and cables that are not long enough are all common elements to find for those that often use public charging infrastructure.
Osprey has worked with UK charity Motability, using customer feedback to understand the key requirements of those that need to use public charging sites. These include space, kerbs screen and handle height, payment ease, cables, and the overall usability of the charge point.
Physical space is one of the most important factors, so Osprey has designed this in alongside unobstructed access to the charger. It has also simplified usability with simple steps and a standard payment method, helping those with any type of mobility requirement.
In the early days of EV charging infrastructure, the priority was to simply get points in the ground. Now, it has been recognised that there are issues with a number of existing points, and plans are being put in place to ensure this doesn’t continue.
Osprey comments that, unless the site has been purchased by the network operator, the size and accessibility of charging spaces sits with the landowner.
Therefore, Motability and the Office for Zero-Emission Vehicles (PZEV) has developed the PAS 1899 standard for charging bays with the BSI standards around accessible charging expected to be finalised this summer. With a set of fixed standards, accessible charging for all should be set in stone for all future sites.
Osprey has said that not only is the new accessible charge point design being rolled out on future installations, it is also going back to existing sited and reviewing them for suitability – retro-fitting more accessible solutions where required.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION
Why not join the conversation on SME fleets – visit our LinkedIn SME Fleet Discussion page
