US tariffs are damaging to UK car producers.
The UK body responsible for car sales, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders ceo Mike Hawes had this to say about the US tariffs, “The announced imposition of a 10% tariff on all UK products exported to the US, whilst less than other major economies, is another deeply disappointing and potentially damaging measure.
“Our cars were already set to attract a punitive 25% tariff overnight and other automotive products are now set to be impacted immediately. While we hope a deal between the UK and US can still be negotiated, this is yet another challenge to a sector already facing multiple headwinds.
“These tariff costs cannot be absorbed by manufacturers, thus hitting US consumers who may face additional costs and a reduced choice of iconic British brands, whilst UK producers may have to review output in the face of constrained demand. Trade discussions must continue at pace, therefore, and we urge all parties to continue to negotiate and deliver solutions which support jobs, consumer demand and economic growth across both sides of the Atlantic.”
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption gains momentum, businesses investing in EV infrastructure have a prime opportunity to transform their assets into profitable revenue streams, says Naomi Nye of Drax Electric Vehicles.
With the UK’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) market share projected to reach 28% by 2026, the potential earnings from EV charging points are set to rise. However, many investors remain unaware that this can be a sustainable and lucrative long-term income source.
Businesses need to act quickly to capitalise on growing EV sales and maximise their share of emerging market opportunities. Successfully monetising existing EV infrastructure requires a deep understanding of potential revenue streams to ensure long-term profitability. But what’s the best strategy? And how can you implement a successful model?
What are the options for new revenue streams from EV charging?
Provide public access to charging
Publicly available EV chargers for consumer use during off-peak hours (for example, evenings and weekends) can increase usage and revenue when charging points are underutilised. Organisations could introduce a ‘pay-per-use’ scheme with minimal operational costs.
Integrate your charge points with charging networks
One of the easiest ways to increase your EV chargers’ usage is by integrating them into established charging networks like Zap-Map. Platforms like this allow drivers to locate and access chargers through an app, ensuring your charge points are visible to a broader audience.
Swap to tiered pricing and membership plans
Some businesses with publicly available chargers can boost revenue with demand-driven pricing and subscription models. Based on usage, time, or subscription levels, your pricing can offer a tailored model to different customer needs.
Offer branded partnerships and advertising
EV chargers can be a valuable location for business advertising. Partners you work with can promote your charge points through on-site signage, logos, and branded messaging. If you’re a business with EV infrastructure or upcoming installation plans, you can bundle these elements and offer them as sponsorship contracts.
Secure corporate partnerships for dedicated charging
For businesses in high-traffic areas like airports, retail centres, business districts, and logistics hubs, there is a prime opportunity to establish corporate partnerships with companies that have EV fleets. One example is to offer exclusive or priority access to your EV chargers for these companies in exchange for a contracted fee or revenue-sharing model. These partnerships can provide a steady, predictable revenue stream.
Don’t forget the upcoming opportunity of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) charging
When there is high energy demand across the UK, if you have a bi-directional charger required for V2G charging, you can send energy back to the network from your electric fleet, as well as charge when grid demand is low. This is an opportunity to generate additional revenue by providing grid stability services.
