British bikers want secure charging for electric motorcycles

MAG UK: “If we are to see progress in the electrification of the motorcycle fleet, then some serious debate needs to be had on the specific needs of motorcyclists when it comes to the question of charging.”

The British Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) has said that the newly published electric vehicle infrastructure strategy is inadequate for meeting the needs of motorcyclists wanting to go electric.

From the electric vehicle infrastructure strategy: “We will transform local on-street charging by putting an obligation on local authorities (subject to consultation) to develop and implement local charging strategies to plan for the transition to a zero emission vehicle fleet. These strategies should identify how to provide affordable, convenient charging for residents, businesses including fleets, and visitors without causing pavement disruptions that could discourage walking and cycling. They will also need to consider charging opportunities for other vehicles, including e-bikes and motorbikes.”

On Friday 25th March 2022 Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps announced the UK’s £1.6 billion ‘Taking charge: the electric vehicle infrastructure strategy‘. MAG responded to consultations prior to the policy development calling for the specific needs of motorcyclists to be fully considered.

MAG welcomes the comments that all Local Transport Plan EV charging strategy must consider charging opportunities for electric motorbikes, as well as cars and vans. However, the strategy gives little to reassure that the promised guidance for local authorities will be adequate.

MAG Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement, Colin Brown, said: “We support and promote the use of electric motorcycles just as much as conventional internal combustion versions, but if we are to see progress in the electrification of the motorcycle fleet, then some serious debate needs to be had on the specific needs of motorcyclists when it comes to the question of charging. With the constant threat of motorcycle theft at the forefront of most riders’ minds, owners will need provision of facilities that allow secure parking at the charging locations. This is before we even start to question the technical and ergonomic aspects of charging facilities. To date, I can see no evidence to suggest that these questions are being asked or addressed.”

Colin Brown, MAG Director of Campaigns & Political Engagement

Colin continues: “For those riders wanting to make the switch to electric, there is insufficient detail in this strategy to reassure. Motorcycles will need dedicated facilities with different ergonomic design and a strong focus on security against theft. There is also nothing to indicate that potential for interchangeable batteries and associated charging hubs has been recognised.”

MAG continues to oppose the proposed phase-out of internal combustion engine motorcycles, but still wishes to ensure that, for those who do choose electric, motorcycle charging infrastructure will not be ignored. Colin Brown: “We are pro choice when it comes to the future of motorcycling. It is imperative that the broadest range of choices are catered for. Certainly, if the government wants to achieve decarbonisation of all transport modes, they need to fully consider all the details – even for motorcycles. We will be seeking to influence the drafting of detailed guidance for local authorities.”

Source: MAG

Top photograph courtesy of thekneeslider.com