Speaking ahead of her session, “Clearing the Charge: Tackling Misinformation in EV Infrastructure,” at the UK Charging Infrastructure Symposium, Sinclair explains why normalising charging, improving communication, and focusing on real-world experience are critical to building public trust and supporting infrastructure rollout at scale.

Why does misinformation about EV charging remain a barrier to adoption in the UK?

“Misinformation in itself is not the primary barrier to EV adoption. There is misinformation about many technologies, yet consumers still trust and like them. The real challenge is the lack of clear, credible, and independent spaces where drivers can explore what transitioning to an EV means for their own lives, without feeling they are being sold to.

“Today, drivers are surrounded by marketing, sales messaging, stats, and specs, but much of it is generalised. What I see as missing is experience-led guidance. EVUK speaks with people about their individual journeys and helps them understand how an EV would work for their circumstances. We have seen that confidence grows when information feels meaningful and trustworthy.”

What are the most common misconceptions about EV charging infrastructure?

“Many misconceptions about EV charging stem from a lack of first-hand experience. If you’ve never picked up a connector, plugged it into an EV, or used an app to start a charge, it’s completely understandable that the process can feel unfamiliar and even daunting.

“Unlike petrol and diesel refuelling, which has been standardised over decades, the charging experience can still vary depending on location, hardware, and payment methods. It’s important to acknowledge that this variation does create uncertainty for prospective drivers.

“But the more people become familiar with charging, the faster those apprehensions fade. Normalisation is the most powerful tool we have in this sector, and it’s where EVUK’s work is focused. Once drivers experience how straightforward charging can be, confidence follows naturally.”

How do misleading narratives about charging infrastructure affect public trust and local decision-making?

“The reality is that millions of EVs are already on UK roads, and adoption continues to grow. More than 90% of EV drivers say they would not return to petrol or diesel, a powerful indicator of real-world satisfaction.

“When installed competently, maintained reliably, and designed with a good customer experience, charging can be highly intuitive and simpler than traditional refuelling. The narrative that charging is universally difficult, unreliable, or expensive is not accurate. While poor equipment and negative experiences do exist, they are not representative of the majority. Allowing these exceptions to define overall perception will undermine public confidence.”

What role should local authorities, charge point operators, and industry leaders play in countering misinformation?

“Everyone involved in the EV ecosystem shares a responsibility to communicate clearly about the what, how, and why of charging. But many organisations’ business models require them to address existing EV drivers. Charging companies need to market to people who already have EVs; local authorities need to inform existing EV drivers where infrastructure is being installed.”

That leaves a gap: who is speaking about charging to people who are curious about or considering an EV?

“This requires a different form of communication – using accessible language, addressing practical concerns, and meeting audiences where they are in their decision-making journey. EVUK focuses on this space. We communicate in a relevant, simple, and reassuring way to fill this confidence and information gap.”

Which communication approaches are most effective in building confidence and public support for EV charging?

“We live in an information age. Facts, data, and myth-busting are all available to drivers. But what builds confidence is meaningful information that helps drivers understand how an EV will integrate into their lives. In my experience, practical, tailored information is more persuasive than abstract statistics. When people can clearly see how the technology fits their lifestyle, hesitation tends to diminish. This driver-centred approach is at the heart of EVUK’s work.”

Can poor communication slow or derail well-planned charging schemes?

“Rather than focusing on isolated examples, I prefer to highlight best practice. Many charging companies are investing heavily in community engagement, educating and supporting drivers who are considering an EV as their next vehicle.

“For example, the charging companies that are EVUK partners are working with us on engagement strategies designed to build confidence among high-propensity EV buyers. This proactive approach helps ensure that infrastructure rollout is in lockstep with public confidence in EVs.”

What practical takeaways will attendees gain from your session at the UK Charging Infrastructure Symposium?

“I would characterise the tone of the national conversation about EVs as cautious, even concerned at times, which is striking given that EVs are innovative, enjoyable to drive, and cheaper to run. There is a way to communicate about EVs, charging, and e-mobility that is both realistic and optimistic. I will focus on how to strike that balance, replacing uncertainty and scepticism with informed confidence.”

The UK Charging Infrastructure Symposium will take place on 4-5 March 2026 at the British Motor Museum. Book your delegate pass today by clicking here.