Electric Vehicles: The Race to 2035

The UK has set an ambitious goal: by 2035, all new cars produced will be electric. As we enter the final decade before this deadline, questions remain about whether the target for electric vehicles is achievable, the readiness of supporting infrastructure, and the implications for industries such as parking management. Here, we explore what this bold vision means for drivers, businesses, and the environment —and how Intelli-Park is positioned to support the transition.

Can the UK Hit the 2035 Electric Vehicles Target?

With only 10 years to go, the transition to 100% electric vehicle (EV) production feels both promising and complex. The UK has seen strong growth, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rising to 16.6% of all new car sales in 2023, up from just 1.7% in 2019. However, accelerating this progress to meet the 2035 goal will require tackling several barriers, including cost, supply chain pressure and consumer confidence.

Automakers continue to increase investment in EV technology and many plan to phase out petrol and diesel models well before the deadline. Even so, questions remain about raw material availability, especially for EV batteries, and whether manufacturers can scale production quickly enough to match demand.

Is the Infrastructure Ready?

A smooth transition depends heavily on charging infrastructure. Although the UK has made progress, the gap remains significant. The country now has more than 45,000 public EV charging points, yet estimates suggest around 300,000 will be needed by 2030. The current installation rate must increase substantially to meet this requirement. Additionally, investment in high-speed charging, particularly along motorways, and improved reliability will be essential.

Car parks will play a crucial role in supporting this growth. Intelli-Park is already partnering with EV charging providers to install charging points across parking facilities nationwide. As a result, drivers gain easier access to reliable charging, and car park operators can support EV adoption while opening new revenue opportunities.

What Does This Mean for Petrol and Diesel Vehicles?

The 2035 deadline does not mean petrol and diesel vehicles will disappear immediately. Instead, hybrid vehicles may help bridge the transition, and used ICE models will remain on UK roads for many years. These vehicles will still need support from automotive services and parking operators. However, as older models phase out, car parks may need to allocate more space for EV charging or repurpose existing areas to meet changing demand.

Owners of petrol and diesel vehicles may also face rising costs through higher taxes or congestion charges. Consequently, some drivers may move to EVs earlier than expected. The parking industry must adapt to this dual landscape, supporting both EV and ICE users during this long transition.

What does this Mean for Parking Management?

The shift to EVs will reshape parking management in several ways:

• Integration of EV charging: Car parks must evolve into EV-friendly hubs, offering fast, reliable charging to attract customers and support the wider adoption of electric vehicles.
• Smarter infrastructure: Technologies like Intelli-Park’s ANPR and digital permits play a key role in optimising the use of EV charging bays by monitoring usage, managing turnover, and minimising disputes over access.
• Sustainability in design: Beyond EV charging, parking facilities are being reimagined with eco-friendly materials, renewable energy sources, and energy-efficient lighting. These innovations align with the UK’s broader green agenda.

How Intelli-Park is Driving the Transition

At Intelli-Park, we remain committed to supporting the UK’s shift to electrification. Through this commitment, we install EV charging points and implement smart technologies that optimise how parking facilities operate. Together, these solutions help future-proof sites for a greener, more efficient transport landscape.

As the industry moves toward 2035, we continue to help operators make the most of this transformative period. Whether upgrading an existing car park or building a state-of-the-art EV-ready facility, Intelli-Park works as a strategic partner to deliver sustainable and forward-thinking parking solutions.

Conclusion

The next decade will play a pivotal role in the UK’s transition to 100% electric vehicle production. Now more than ever, collaboration between government, industry and consumers will be essential. Although challenges remain, the benefits of cleaner air, lower emissions and a modernised transport system are within reach. For the parking industry, this moment presents a major opportunity to lead the shift, adapt to new demands and support the UK’s progress toward a sustainable future.

Ready to prepare your parking facility for the EV revolution? Contact Us to learn more about our innovative solutions and how we can help you stay ahead in the race to 2035.