Where I’d now happily take the family on a last minute road trip.
The 3 worst phrases to hear in the car….
1) Are we there yet?
2) I need a poo.
3) Charging Failed!
When you’re driving an EV (or any car for that matter) with the kids in the back, it’s nice to know that you’re in control of certain things. For anyone new to electric, reliable chargers make a huge difference, and this year, according to Zapmap’s data, some UK regions have taken a massive leap forward.
Their latest UK infrastructure statistics, used by the government and EV drivers alike, show that total public charging devices rose by a whopping 23 percent year on year. That includes 15,979 more devices as of 1 October 2025.
So, for a family trip in an EV, this means fewer “Will this charger work?” worries and more “Let’s go!” moments.
Top growth regions to know
Here are the regions showing the biggest charge point growth and why they’re now great for spontaneous family EV outings.
1. North West
The North West jumped ahead in first place with around 38 percent growth in high powered chargers. Think of the M6 corridor, service stations with 150 kW bays, and fewer stops with flat batteries.
Family trip tip: Plan a route from Manchester to the Lake District. With more ultra rapid chargers, you’ll spend less time charging and more time throwing stones into the water with the kids.
2. Yorkshire and the Humber
Yorkshire and the Humber saw roughly 33 percent growth in high powered devices. Yorkshire is often underrated for EV trips, but this data shows it’s catching up fast.
Family trip tip: Head to the City Of York for some classic British Culture – mainly Yorkshire puddings, or to the Yorkshire Dales, the moors knowing you can top up easily while grabbing snacks for a spontaneous picnic.
3. South East excluding London
Across all charger types including slow, destination and on street, the South East posted just over 26 percent growth.
Family trip tip: From your base in the South you now have plenty of on street and destination chargers within reach for that spur of the moment road trip.
4. Wales
Wales saw just under 26 percent growth across all devices. For EV families, Wales is increasingly a go anytime destination rather than a “hope we find a charger” gamble.
Family trip tip: Think beaches, castles and forests without worrying you’ll get stranded.
What’s changed and why it matters
- More rapid and ultra rapid chargers. Zapmap’s data shows that ultra rapids of 150 kW and above are growing the fastest. These chargers deliver electrons super quick.
- Remember to pre-condition your EV en route to your stop for optimised charging speeds.
- Better regional spread. It’s no longer just major cities. Many regions outside London are levelling up quickly.
- Improved charging confidence. With more reliable infrastructure, families feel happier doing spontaneous day trips instead of heavily planned ones.
A typical Sustainable Dad family friendly route
Picture this.
- Fully Charge overnight on cheap electricity and load the EV in the morning.
- Head towards Yorkshire for a day out in the Peaks.
- Stop at one of the new rapid chargers for a quick top up while the kids eat lunch.
- Carry on exploring.
- Drive home the same day without worrying about finding a charge at 10pm.
Thanks to the growth in the North West and Yorkshire, that whole trip is now more relaxed and much more doable.
Make the most of the improved network, use the Zapmap app or website to filter by charger power, region and availability.
Wrap up
The UK charging network is improving in regions far beyond the usual hotspots. That means more flexibility, more confidence and fewer limits when planning electric car family days out.
North West. Yorkshire and the Humber. South East. Wales. These regions are leading the way and they open up far more options for EV families.
Pack the snacks, hop in the EV and go. The chargers are ready.
Where are you planning your next EV family adventure and which region are you exploring next?
If you’re on Instagram, Tag me in your pics on the road of your favourite charging stops.
