Street-Level EV Chargers Need Traffic Light Status to Close Charging Gaps, Research Shows

A new study argues that curbside electric vehicle chargers should be planned with the same strategic importance as traffic signals, pointing out that their current haphazard placement creates dead zones that slow EV adoption. The research highlights how many urban drivers rely on on-street charging, yet inconsistent installation leaves neighborhoods underserved, discouraging potential buyers who lack home charging options.

The authors suggest that integrating charger placement into municipal traffic and infrastructure planning could eliminate these black spots, making EV ownership more feasible for city residents. They compare the visibility and availability of chargers to the ubiquity of traffic lights, which drivers expect at every major intersection. By treating charging points as essential urban furniture rather than optional upgrades, cities could accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation.

Practical examples show that dedicated kerbside networks, such as those with dedicated bays and clear signage, increase usage and reduce range anxiety. The study concludes that a systematic approach, guided by data on traffic flows and housing density, would yield more equitable access to charging. This shift, the team notes, requires close cooperation between energy providers, city councils, and transport authorities to ensure that electricity supply keeps pace with charger installation.

While the study does not specify exact funding mechanisms, it emphasizes that with proper planning, kerbside charging can evolve from a scarce amenity into a standard feature of urban life, much like streetlights. For cities aiming to hit climate targets, treating chargers as civic infrastructure could be a decisive policy move.