Solihull Council is marking World EV Day by celebrating the successful upgrade and expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, delivered in partnership with leading charge point operator Qwello.
Since the launch of the Council’s ambitious EV destination charging programme last year, Qwello has successfully upgraded existing Council owned EV chargers and expanded provision at several key locations.
Attention has now turned to growing the network even further and installing easy to use new charge points at additional locations. This work forms part of a 2 year programme that will see up to 500 charging points installed across the borough.
Accessible new charge points are currently being installed in Knowle, Castle Bromwich, Lyndon and within Solihull town centre.
This expansion supports the Council’s recently updated Electric Vehicle Strategy, which sets out a clear roadmap for increasing accessibility to EV infrastructure, encouraging wider adoption of electric vehicles, and reducing carbon emissions in line with Solihull’s climate and air quality goals.
Earlier this year, the Council hosted its first EV Experience Day giving residents the opportunity to test drive electric vehicles, speak with industry experts, and learn more about the benefits of going electric. The event was a resounding success, drawing hundreds of attendees and reinforcing the borough’s commitment to a cleaner, greener transport future.
Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Planning, said:
“On World EV Day, we’re proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made in transforming Solihull’s EV infrastructure. With Qwello’s support, we’ve not only upgraded our existing network but are actively expanding it to ensure every community has access to reliable and convenient charging options.
“Electric vehicles are central to our climate strategy. By making it easier for residents to make the switch, we’re improving air quality, reducing emissions, and helping Solihull lead the way in sustainable transport.
"We also want drivers passing through the borough to feel confident stopping to charge their EVs and to take time to enjoy all that Solihull has to offer. Our strategic location means that by expanding our infrastructure here, we’re also helping to reduce air pollution along the busy M42 and beyond."
Qwello UK’s Managing Director, Martin Hale, added:
“We’re delighted to be working with Solihull Council to deliver a modern, user-friendly charging network that meets the needs of today’s EV drivers. Our chargers are designed for accessibility and ease of use, and we’re excited to continue rolling out new sites across the borough.”
The roll-out of new charging points is supported by a £800,000 grant from the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) pilot project, awarded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and Department for Transport (DfT).
With up to 500 new charging points set to be installed by 2026, Solihull is well on its way to becoming one of the UK’s most EV friendly boroughs.
Residents or businesses who would like to suggest a potential location for future public EV charging installation, are encouraged to contact Solihull Council at goingelectric@solihull.gov.uk