Bexley gets 500 new electric car chargers

By Amanda Griffin 09/06/2026 3 min read 28 views

Ubitricity has expanded its EV charging network in Bexley to 500 points, completing installations between November 2025 and March 2026. Over 200 units were added in December alone, retrofitted into existing lamp posts on residential streets. The process takes under 30 minutes per unit, avoiding disruptions to public spaces.

The new infrastructure includes Ubitricity’s smart charging software, which lets users adjust charging times to match lower electricity rates. The company will manage the network for the borough, maintaining the units and ensuring reliability. This approach reduces the need for new street infrastructure, keeping sidewalks clear of cables and bulky equipment.

Shell owns Ubitricity, which now operates over 14,600 public charge points nationwide. The expansion in Bexley positions the company as the UK’s largest EV charging provider. Stuart Wilson, UK Managing Director, called the project a partnership with the borough to “expand access” and “encourage EV adoption.”

Local officials highlighted the project’s practical benefits. Councillor Cameron Smith noted the chargers’ integration into existing lamp columns, avoiding “extra street clutter.” Residents can now charge vehicles near their homes without altering the neighborhood’s appearance. The smart software also helps users cut costs by aligning charging with off-peak hours.

Installation timelines show rapid progress. More than a fifth of the 500 points were deployed in one month, suggesting a scalable model. Ubitricity’s method relies on repurposing streetlight infrastructure, a strategy that could be replicated elsewhere. The company has not disclosed plans for similar projects outside Bexley.

Residents with electric vehicles now have more options for daily charging. The network’s density could ease range anxiety, a common concern for EV owners. However, some analysts question whether the smart software’s cost-saving benefits will translate to widespread savings for users. Ubitricity has not provided data on average savings per household.

The project aligns with UK government goals to boost EV adoption. Over 14,600 charge points across the country suggest a growing emphasis on public infrastructure. Bexley’s approach may serve as a template for other boroughs seeking to balance expansion with minimal disruption.

Ubitricity’s role as a Shell subsidiary raises questions about its long-term independence. The company has not outlined plans to reduce reliance on parent company resources. Meanwhile, local officials stress the partnership’s focus on accessibility rather than corporate influence.

Residents can access the new chargers via a mobile app, which tracks availability and pricing. The software updates automatically, ensuring users benefit from the latest tariff information. No physical keys or memberships are required to use the stations.

The expansion does not address broader challenges, such as grid capacity or battery recycling. Ubitricity has not commented on these issues, focusing instead on the immediate goal of increasing charging availability. Critics argue that infrastructure alone cannot solve the UK’s long-term energy needs.

For now, Bexley’s residents gain a more convenient option for EV charging. The 500-point network is the largest of its kind in the borough, with no immediate signs of slowing down. Ubitricity’s next steps remain unclear, but the partnership with local officials has set a precedent for similar collaborations elsewhere.