Published: Monday, 24 April 2023

Oxford City Council is inviting residents and businesses across Oxford and Oxfordshire to attend its 'EVs are for EVeryone' event on Saturday 27 May.

According to the latest DVLA data, in March 2023, almost half (44.22%) of vehicles newly registered in Oxfordshire were electric - the highest uptake figures in the UK. However range anxiety, upfront cost, charging infrastructure, and running costs are often cited as barriers to adoption.

'EVs are for EVeryone' is a free event that aims to provide residents and businesses with an opportunity to find out more about electric cars and vans in a relaxed and friendly way with no commitment.

The event, which is organised by Oxford City Council, with support from Oxfordshire County Council, will be taking place from 10am-3.30pm at Redbridge Park and Ride.

Members of the public and businesses will have the opportunity to test up to six different affordable cars and vans from a range of models, including MINI, BMWMGRenault, and more. Friendly experts and local electric vehicle champions will be on hand to share their tips and advice. Exhibitors also include EV car shop, BMW North Oxford, Go Green Autos, Drive electric, ODS, CoWheels car club, and many more.

Visitors will be able to learn more about the wide range of ownership options that are available for electric vehicles, including car clubs, leasing, and second-hand cars and vans, as well as information about business finance options and EV charger grants.  

There will also be an opportunity to learn more about electric vehicle charging plans across the region as well as what infrastructure is already in place. Visitors will have an opportunity to leave feedback on where they want to see an on-street charger within Oxford as part of phase two of Go Ultra Low Oxford and other deployment projects.

To find out more and to register for a free ticket go to the Eventbrite page

Electric vehicles in Oxford

Oxford City Council is committed to tackling climate change and air pollution, including encouraging the use of electric vehicles for residents and businesses.

In July 2022, the Council approved the Oxford EV Infrastructure Strategy to deliver fair and equitable EV charging for all who live, work and visit Oxford. This strategy works with the county-wide Oxfordshire EV Infrastructure Strategy, and includes a shared approach to on-street charging for residents with limited or no access to home charging. 

Redbridge Park & Ride is a hub for electric vehicles in Oxford, and is home to Europe’s most powerful charging hub – providing charging for up to 42 vehicles at once. The Park & Ride is also home to a new electric car club vehicle, as part of a countywide trial which aims to provide an affordable experience of driving an electric vehicle, without a long-term commitment.

“Many Oxford residents and businesses have already switched to an electric vehicle, but we know that some people are uncertain about whether an electric car or van is suitable for them. At this event you will find local electric vehicle champions and businesses ready to answer your questions. How far can I drive between charges? Is there a second hand market? How long do batteries last?

“If you are thinking about buying or sharing an electric vehicle and want to find out more about the options available to you, then do come along to Redbridge Park and Ride on May 27th and see what the future looks like!”

Councillor Louise Upton, Cabinet Member for Health and Transport at Oxford City Council

“EV Car Shop are delighted to be part of this event to showcase affordable Electric Vehicles. We are passionate about making the transition to EVs as accessible as possible.”

Emily Verheijen, from EV Car Shop

"This is a fantastic opportunity for business and the public alike to come along, ask questions and learn more about switching to an EV. For over 6 years, Go Green Autos has been selling used zero emission vans and cars in Oxfordshire."

Matt West, from Go Green Autos

“Electric vehicles are better for the environment than petrol or diesel, and can be much more accessible that people think. I’d really encourage anyone who likes the idea of driving electric to come along and get behind the wheel of some of the more affordable electric cars and vans on offer, and find out how things like leasing, car clubs and different types of EV chargers can work for them.”

Jenny Figueiredo, EV Charging Project Manager at Oxfordshire County Council

Rate this page