According to recent statistics released by data company Emu Analytics, it is estimated that there will be over one million electric vehicles (EVs) on the UK’s roads within the next two years. In turn, this will generate a requirement for six times more EV charging points than are currently in use. This has sparked much debate in the press and the industry about the need to build the necessary framework to support the 25 million electric cars predicted to be on the roads by 2050.
As the appetite and demand for a robust EV infrastructure grows, the automotive supply chain is responding to this shift with a number of initiatives. For example, the National Grid is developing plans to add hundreds more charging points for EVs across the nation’s motorway network, including 50 super-charger sites at key locations. These 350kW EV charging points will allow most electric vehicles to be fully charged in under eight minutes, making long-distance travel using an electric vehicle more accessible, quicker and more practical.
GEARING UP THE SUPPLY CHAIN
As the requirement for robust EV charging points continues to grow, it’s vital that the manufacturing supply chain has the necessary resources and opportunities to support the sector, and emerging players who will one day dominate the market.
“At TR Fastenings, our branded ranges of sheet metal fasteners, thread-forming screws for plastics and metals, plastic hardware, enclosure hardware, security fasteners and standard fastenings are the ideal components for EV charging units, so we have been able to work closely with companies in this sector,” states Jeremy Scholefield, director of strategic business at TR Fastenings. “As well as advising them on the parts and processes they require, we can highlight any challenges they may come across in the manufacturing process.
“For the ‘electric highway’ initiative to be successful, manufacturers and sub-contractors must work together early on in the development process, specifically right from the start, to ensure the correct ‘Design for Manufacturing (DfM)’considerations. Discussing cost efficiency, sourcing and product lifecycle issues at the design table means that potential difficulties can be identified and addressed early, avoiding later delays,” he argues.
“The EV charging unit market will be an exciting sector to watch as it evolves and gathers pace,” adds Scholefield. “The major challenge now will be to harness growing consumer interest in EVs and nurture it with the necessary resources and infrastructure. We look forward to working with brands and suppliers, as they take on this challenge, and help to shape the next chapter in the automotive story.”
