EV Charging

Government must match growing demand for EV charging, says Croxdale MD

£65m Government investment Welcomes, but More Infrastructure needed.

A Legacy of Innovation at Croxdale Group

For over five decades, Croxdale Group has been at the forefront of the automotive industry, evolving with consumer demand and advancing technology. Established in 1967 as a Citroën dealer, the family-run business now represents leading brands from Stellantis, including; Citroën, Peugeot, Vauxhall, Fiat, and Jeep, as well as the rapidly growing MG range.

With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming increasingly popular, Croxdale has embraced the transition by investing in state-of-the-art aftersales facilities and preparing to introduce the all-electric Leapmotor range in 2025.

EV Adoption Outpacing UK Charging Infrastructure

UK Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate Pushing EV Sales

The UK’s Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requires 22% of new car sales to be zero-emission in 2024, rising to 28% in 2025. While EV sales are surging, public charging infrastructure is struggling to keep up.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has pledged £65m to expand the UK’s EV charging network, but Croxdale’s Managing Director, Anthony Rockingham, warns that more investment is urgently needed to meet demand.

A Call for Greater Government Action

“The UK needs a robust and accessible EV charging network to encourage more drivers to switch to electric. While we welcome the Government’s recent investment, we urge further action to ensure infrastructure grows at the same pace as EV adoption.”

MG’s Record-Breaking EV Sales at Croxdale Group

MG’s Growth in the UK Electric Vehicle Market

As the fastest-growing mainstream car manufacturer in the UK, MG has seen record-breaking EV sales, with:

30.6% increase in sales in July 2024
✅ Nearly 2% UK market share
8.9% share of the pure electric market

​At Croxdale Group Durham, MG’s success has been mirrored, with strong sales growth and a rise in demand for popular electric models like the MG5 EV Long Range and ZS EV.

​Charging Infrastructure Still a Barrier

"Despite the shift towards electric, many consumers are still hesitant due to charging concerns. More must be done to make EVs a practical choice for all drivers, not just those with home chargers.”

EV Cost Savings Are Clear, But Home Charging Is Key.

The Cost Advantage of EVs Over Petrol Vehicles

EV owners can save over £900 per year compared to petrol drivers, but only if they have access to home charging.

  • Home charge (full battery): ~£13
  • Rapid public charge (30 min): ~£19
  • Petrol cost for equivalent mileage: Much higher

Without easy access to local public chargers, EV ownership remains inconvenient for many drivers.​

EV Charging

Durham County Council Expands EV Charging Network

New Public Chargers to Support EV Growth

Durham County Council is leading the way in local EV infrastructure, with:

163 public chargers already installed
✔ Plans for 250 more by 2027
✔ A partnership with charging provider Zest

The first new chargers are being installed in Rookhope (Bishop Auckland) and Horden, supporting drivers across County Durham.

​Croxdale’s Call for Further Investment

“We need to see neighbouring councils securing more funding for vital infrastructure projects like this. The transition to EVs is happening now, we must act fast to ensure drivers have the charging facilities they need.”

Government Action Needed to Support EV Transition

Calls for Public Charging Infrastructure Targets

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has warned that EV adoption could stall without Government intervention. They are calling for:

  • Binding targets for chargepoint expansion
  • More financial incentives for EV buyers
  • Faster rollout of rapid charging hubs

Croxdale Group supports these calls and urges the Government to take stronger action.

Croxdale Group: Helping You Make the Switch to Electric

Your Local EV Experts in Durham

At Croxdale Group Durham, we make transitioning to an EV simple and hassle-free:

  • Wide range of EVs from Stellantis & MG
  • Home charger installation service (can be included in finance plans)
  • Use Zap-Map to find your nearest charging station (www.zap-map.com)
  • Expert guidance on EV grants, range, and charging solutions

Ready to Make the Switch?

Explore EV & Charging Solutions

Visit Croxdale Group Durham today or contact our expert team for advice on finding your perfect EV.