As concern grows over long lines at charging stations, carmakers in the UK have demanded an independent regulator oversee the development of the country's electric-vehicle charging infrastructure.
A new regulatory body would enforce standards and monitor prices at charging stations, states the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the auto trade body, while also setting targets for the building of public chargers to meet the demands of all EV owners across the country, with mandated targets expected to inspire motorists to switch to battery-powered vehicles.
Over one in six new vehicles registered in the UK last year were plug-ins, SMMT data showed.
However, in England's north, growth is far outpacing the rollout of charging points, particularly in comparison with the south, SMMT has noted, with one standard public charger for every 37 electric cars in the North of England, but one for every 26 cars in the South of England.
SMMT is also calling for the establishment of the Office of Charging - Ofcharge - to regulate the market, monitor charging prices and affordability, and enforce minimum standards.
A study released last month showed that charging points owned by local councils are subject to a "postcode lottery".
In England and Wales, British Gas obtained figures showing that 21 councils offer free charging of batteries to motorists, while drivers in other areas face a charge of up to £4 per kilowatt hour. Data was obtained from more than 400 councils.
However, in recognition of the UK's progress, the SMMT acknowledged that UK has one rapid charging point for every 32 electric vehicles - among the highest levels in the world. On that measure, only China, South Korea, and Japan are ahead of the country.