• • • EV • • •


IS 2026 THE YEAR THE UK EV MARKET MATURES?


That shift has important implications for the BY PAUL COLLINS, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, NICEIC F


or much of the past decade, the UK electric vehicle (EV) market has been defined by growth potential.


There has been a marked change in the past


two years. As EVs become an increasingly common sight on UK roads, 2026 looks set to be the year the market moves from early adoption to mainstream maturity. The data on this is quite compelling and it is


something that all of us who spend time on the road are all seeing in real-time. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 30 Per cent of all new car registrations in June 2026, while registrations were up 35 per cent year-on-year. At the same time, demand for petrol and diesel vehicles continues to decline, with electrified models now driving growth across the automotive market. Competition is also intensifying. Established


manufacturers have expanded their EV portfolios, while newer entrants particularly Chinese automakers are making electric motoring more affordable for consumers. The result is a market that is broader, more competitive and increasingly accessible. Perhaps the strongest sign of maturity, however,


is the growth of the used EV market. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), demand for second-hand electric vehicles reached record levels in the first quarter of 2026. A healthy used market is a hallmark of a mature automotive sector, opening EV ownership to a wider audience and helping to normalise electric vehicles as a practical choice rather than an emerging technology.


electrical industry. Historically, many new EV purchases included a home charge point installation arranged through the vehicle manufacturer. As more consumers enter the market through second-hand purchases, that model is changing. Used EV buyers are typically responsible for sourcing their own charging solution, creating growing demand for electricians who can advise on, install and maintain EV charging equipment. This presents a significant opportunity. Demand


for charge point installations continues to grow across domestic, commercial and public settings, while many of the earliest installations are beginning to require maintenance, upgrades or replacement. As the UK’s EV fleet expands, so too does the need for a skilled workforce capable of supporting the infrastructure that underpins it. Government policy is helping to accelerate


that growth. Recent reforms have removed planning barriers for many domestic charge point installations, making it easier and more cost-effective for homeowners to install chargers. Plans to expand permitted development rights for on-street charging and cross-pavement solutions could also help address one of the biggest challenges facing drivers without off-street parking. Financial incentives remain available for eligible


households, including grants for those living in flats or relying on on-street parking. Importantly, these schemes require installations to be carried out by installers operating in accordance with a government-approved Competent Person Scheme. For certified electrical businesses, this provides a clear route into a rapidly expanding market. Yet infrastructure growth will depend on more


than supportive policy. The industry must also address a critical skills challenge. The UK’s ambitions for electric vehicles rely on


having enough competent electricians to design, install, inspect and maintain charging


22 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • JULY/AUGUST 2026 niceic.com/training electricalengineeringmagazine.co.uk


infrastructure safely. As adoption accelerates, demand for qualified installers is likely to increase significantly. Without continued investment in skills and training, workforce capacity risks becoming a bottleneck to future progress. That’s why professional development remains


so important. Electric vehicle charging systems are evolving rapidly, and electricians need access to training that equips them with the technical knowledge and practical competence required to work safely and confidently. Industry-recognised qualifications provide assurance not only for installers, but also for consumers seeking trusted professionals. While there are still challenges ahead, the signs


are encouraging. Growing new and used vehicle sales, greater manufacturer competition, supportive government measures and rising demand for charging infrastructure all point to a market entering a more mature phase. For electrical contractors, the message is clear.


The transition to electric vehicles is no longer a future opportunity, it is happening now. Businesses that invest in the right skills and qualifications will be well placed to support the next stage of the UK’s EV journey and help build the infrastructure that makes widespread adoption possible. NICEIC is one of the leading training providers


for the industry, offering comprehensive courses to help electricians upskill in EVCE, such as its Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Points, Level 3 Award. NICEIC’s EVCE qualifications were among the


first to carry the prestigious Electrician Plus kitemark, showing they meet the industry gold standard for training courses in low carbon and renewable technologies.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48