Charge point targets unlikely to be met says London mayor

A planned target of 75 rapid charge points in London is unlikely to be met according to London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

The charge points are seen as crucial as London gears up for the new zero emission taxi. Only 29 charge points exist with a further 15 due for completion before the end of the year. 

As of 1st January 2018 all taxis sold must be capable of emission free driving, but the lack of charge points and general infrastructure remains a sticking point for cabbies wanting to make the change. 

However, during  the Mayor's Monthly Question Time , Sadiq Khan stated that the original target of 75 rapid charging points by the end of the year looks unlikely. 

Sadiq Khan said "The rate of delivery is expected to rise dramatically, with over 130 locations currently being worked on" 

He did however add that TfL would be "prioritising the delivery to ensure there is sufficient coverage to meet demand from taxi drivers as they transition to zero emission capable vehicles from the start of next year". GLA member Caroline Pidgeon, who requested an update on the progress, responded by saying the news was "depresssing".  

She went on to say "If we expect companies with large fleets of cars and vans to go electric they need the absolute certainty that there will always be easy access to rapid charging points in every part of London,"