Key details
Date
- 10 November 2021
Author
- RCA
Read time
- 1 minute
The iconic new British chargepoint for electric vehicles designed by the RCA and PA Consulting has been unveiled by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps MP at COP26.
The new chargepoint is a key part of the UK government's pledge to reach zero emission for HGVs and end the sale of all polluting road vehicles within the next two decades. Designed for functionality, ease of use and distinctiveness – the chargepoint is intended to become as iconic as the British phone box or the London bus.
The Department for Transport announced the appointment of the Royal College of Art (RCA) and PA Consulting to deliver the design back in August, with the RCA's participation led by Professor Clive Grinyer, Head of our MA Service Design.
“This design is a landmark in our journey to electric vehicles and zero carbon. We have listened to people around the country who asked to have a minimum impact on their streets, to ensure that it works well for disabled and all people and that we bring the UK’s design and engineering talent to create an iconic design that we can all be proud of.”
Head of MA Service Design
Through COP26, the UK Government has been calling on countries around the world to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles, which – along with phasing out of coal power and halting deforestation – are crucial to keeping warming to 1.5C. Having the right charging infrastructure in place is essential to this.
“The end product needed to be functional, inclusive, sustainable, adaptable, affordable and finally, arguably most importantly for behavioural change, people had to love it.”
Design Lead, PA Consulting
With its recognisable circular handset, the chargepoint was constructed with accessibility, inclusivity and user enjoyment in mind. A people-oriented approach lead the design with rapid re-iterations and testing with consumer groups.