It is estimated that by 2035, there will be 2.7 million disabled drivers in the United Kingdom (UK), with 50% relying on public charging.
That’s why it is essential for companies to ensure that the infrastructure does not become inaccessible due to factors such as the weight of the equipment and the difficulty in handling it.
To address this, Landis+Gyr, a global leader in integrated energy management solutions, has partnered with Believ, a leading UK-based CPO, to deliver accessible solutions.
During the London EV Show, Mark Coley, Head of Market Development at Landis+Gyr, explains to Mobility Portal Europe: “Believ is installing our PAS 1899-compliant chargers (the UK standard for accessible EV charging) in public spaces in collaboration with local governments.”
At the event, the company showcased its product designed to meet the PAS 1899 regulations, which focus on accessibility for users with reduced mobility, including those in wheelchairs.
The refined version of the INCH Duo AC charger, developed to meet this standard, provides guidelines on the physical environment, location, information provision, and the design.
The updated model, tailored for extended stay and overnight charging, includes features such as repositioned sockets to meet height guidelines and contactless payment options for a seamless user experience.
“EV drivers want chargers that are easy to use and functional,” remarks Coley.
He adds: “Meanwhile, CPOs require durable and reliable products with 99% availability, in line with recent UK regulations.”
Why align charging infrastructure projects with PAS 1899?
On 30 June 2021, the then Minister for Transport, Rachel Maclean, announced that the government and the charitable sector would join forces to establish accessibility standards, aiming to create a more inclusive and reliable electric vehicle charging network.
In this regard, the Department for Transport (DfT), in collaboration with the national disability charity Motability, tasked the British Standards Institution (BSI) with developing these standards.
As a result, in October 2022, these organisations jointly sponsored PAS 1899, a standard providing guidance for designers, manufacturers, buyers, and operators of public charging points.
The specification outlines comprehensive criteria to ensure EV charging accessibility for all users, addressing aspects such as location, height, space requirements, and other physical features.
Why is compliance with this standard important?
Aligning projects with the PAS 1899 standard significantly enhances the likelihood of securing funding from the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund, as authorities seeking access to the fund must adhere to its guidelines.
Landis+Gyr Overcomes Grid Limitations
The company produces chargers ideal for fleet operators, workplaces, and residential use.
“Our products range from 7.4 to 22 kilowatts in alternating current (AC). We also offer a range of direct current (DC) devices supported by batteries,” explains Coley.
“This range is a new addition to our portfolio,” he adds.
The inclusion of batteries in this DC charger portfolio helps address grid constraints and enables ultra-fast charging.
“This benefits both network operators and users by reducing limitations,” he asserts.
About Landis+Gyr
Landis+Gyr is a leading global provider of integrated energy management solutions.
The company measures and analyses energy usage to generate insights that enable the intelligent management of grids and infrastructure, helping utilities and consumers reduce consumption.
Based in Slovenia, Landis+Gyr operates from more than 80 locations worldwide, including the United Kingdom.
“We operate across regions such as Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as Asia-Pacific and North America, making us a truly global company,” Coley acknowledges.
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