Is the UK ready for the 2030 petrol and diesel car ban? - The real estate infrastructure challenge

The UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, with a full transition to zero-emission vehicles by 2035. While this marks a significant step towards a greener future, the reality of delivering the necessary charging infrastructure remains a major challenge.

At Nimbus, we’re keeping a close eye on the evolving landscape of EV adoption and, crucially, the real estate implications and how we can support the market. With just five years to go, where does the UK stand in its readiness, and what opportunities exist for developers, investors, and landowners?

The State of the UK's EV Charging Infrastructure

The government has set an ambitious target of 300,000 public EV charging points by 2030. At the end of 2024, the UK had around 73,000 – meaning significant expansion is still needed. While local councils have plans to deliver an additional 100,000, questions remain about funding, planning processes, and grid capacity.

For landowners and developers, this presents a clear opportunity. Strategic real estate decisions—whether repurposing existing sites or integrating charging into new developments—will be crucial in closing the infrastructure gap.

The Role of Commercial Real Estate in EV Expansion

The shift to EVs isn't just about more chargers—it’s about where they are placed. Retail parks, service stations, residential developments, and workplace hubs all have a role to play. Commercial landlords who integrate EV charging into their properties could see increased foot traffic, higher asset value, and long-term sustainability benefits.

At Nimbus, we help businesses and developers identify optimal locations for EV infrastructure, factoring in transport patterns, grid capacity, and site viability. As the 2030 deadline approaches, those who act early will be best positioned to capitalise on the transition.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

With EV adoption set to rise, property owners, investors, and local authorities need to think strategically. Will local grid connections support widespread charging? Will planning policies evolve fast enough? And how will businesses adapt to changing consumer habits?

One thing is clear: The shift to EVs is about more than just cars—it’s about infrastructure, location intelligence, and future-proofed real estate strategies.

Want to explore how your business can stay ahead of the transition? Nimbus provides the data and insights to help you identify the right opportunities.

Get ready for 2030, book a demo today.