Oxfordshire Moves Forward with UK’s Largest Cross-Pavement EV Charging Programme

A major step has been taken in the UK’s largest initiative to provide electric vehicle (EV) charging for households without off-street parking.

Oxfordshire County Council has awarded a contract to ODS to deliver up to 500 Gul-e cross-pavement charging units across the county.

The innovative Gul-e system allows residents to charge EVs safely from their homes to vehicles parked on the street, without the risk of trip hazards.

Councillor Ben Higgins, Cabinet Member for Future Economy and Innovation, said:"This is a major milestone for our EV charging programme, part of a wider £4.3 million government-backed scheme to increase the number of chargers across Oxfordshire. Around a third of households here lack off-street parking, so this initiative could be a real game-changer, giving residents the confidence to switch to electric vehicles while benefiting from home electricity rates."

Simon Howick, ODS Managing Director, added:"Securing the UK’s largest cross-pavement charging tender is a huge endorsement of our Gul-e solution. This demonstrates that technology like Gul-e is practical, scalable, and can make a real contribution to decarbonising local transport networks."

Residents were invited to apply for installations via the council’s website from July, with applications still open. Each site will be assessed for safety and suitability. Approved locations will be marked for a Gul-e installation, after which residents will install a compliant home EV charger.

The programme is supported by a £700,000 government grant, which significantly reduces costs for successful applicants. ODS will supply and install the Gul-e units, carry out biannual inspections, and provide ongoing maintenance to meet highways standards.

Oxfordshire’s initiative is expected to serve as a national model, showcasing how local authorities can provide cost-effective, accessible EV charging solutions for households without driveways, helping to accelerate the UK’s journey toward net zero.