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Geospatial data for electric vehicles

Reimagine the UK’s transport infrastructure

Transport is currently the largest contributor to pollution in the UK, responsible for 24.4% of all emissions. To address this, the UK government has committed to support electrification and to reach net-zero emissions by 2035.

We will need to change the consumer perception and facilitate further R&D amongst manufacturers but most of all, revolutionise the current road infrastructure and increase the number of EV charge points by at least tenfold.

The technologies are now ready for this transition, so developers, data scientists and engineering will play an integral role in shaping the UK’s new transport infrastructure. This initiative is not just about EVs, but the UK’s sustainable future as a whole. We will have to consider renewable energy network placements, land usage and traffic routing — all of which require the application of geospatial data.

This is a unique opportunity to collaborate across disciplines to share ideas, concepts, and applications.

Our report explores the use of location data to enhance sustainable development. It looks at how innovation and new technologies could influence the way we work and live.

Forecasted Electric Vehicles
10 million by 2030
48% CAGR 2020-2030
Forecasted number of charge points
2.3 million by 2030
51% CAGR 2020-2030
UK EV sales in 2021 resulted in a
15% reduction
volume weighted average Co2 emissions YoY variation

What can geospatial data do

Optimal charge point locations

Charge point infrastructure involves a balance between maximising utilisation and minimising cost. Detailed route mapping will be required to determine optimal and convenient charge points, and speed of charger is needed including charge estimates for longer journeys. This is about providing a network that comprehends load balance to ensure convenience.

Environmentally feasible placement

We need to consider charger power requirements, peak load times, and availability on local Low and Medium Voltage networks to optimise locations while minimising grid connection feasibility and cost, for now and for the future. There are also land usage and environmental concerns to be aware of that require accurate geospatial data.

Creating accessibility for all

Beyond removing payment friction and working towards a standard model, ease of use is the primary factor in EV charging app design. Apps need to be interoperable so all sectors can operate them. This will be integral to customers’ real-world journeys and to inspire confidence and alleviate anxiety.

Delivering unified experiences

Charge time should be used to educate and entertain consumers, customers require easy-to-follow steps on how to use different charge points effectively. They’ll need to know payment and distance to charge. Effective EV apps will have the capacity to link disparate parts of the charging network and apply a UX capable of delivering a unified experience.

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