UK Minister for Future of Roads, Greenwood, to outline the government’s ambitious EV infrastructure plans at the London EV Show

Lilian Greenwood, the UK’s newly appointed Minister for the Future of Roads, will take centre stage at the highly anticipated London EV Show, bringing her extensive experience in transport policy to bear on one of the most pressing challenges of our time—electrifying the nation’s roads. With a packed agenda of policymakers, industry experts, and technology innovators, the event is expected to shine a spotlight on the pivotal role electric vehicles (EVs) will play in the UK’s ambitious climate targets.

Greenwood, who has been the Member of Parliament for Nottingham South since 2010, took on the role of Minister for the Future of Roads in July 2024, marking a significant step forward in the government’s push for greener transportation. Her appointment followed a successful tenure as the Shadow Secretary of State for Transport (2015-2016), where she championed investments in public transport infrastructure and sustainability initiatives. This leadership experience is set to shape her speech at the London EV Show, where she will reveal how the government plans to transform the nation’s roadways to support a new era of electric mobility.

At the event, taking place in the vibrant heart of London, Greenwood’s address is expected to emphasise the urgency of adopting cleaner transport technologies. With the government keen to hit its ambitious net-zero emissions targets by 2050, the focus on EV infrastructure has never been more critical. The minister’s speech is poised to cover a range of strategies, from expanding charging networks to integrating smart technologies that can optimise road usage and reduce congestion.

Beyond mere policy announcements, Greenwood’s presence underscores the government’s commitment to putting words into action. This year, the Department for Transport has been actively collaborating with stakeholders to accelerate the rollout of EV charging points across the nation, ensuring that drivers can transition smoothly to electric vehicles without the fear of running out of power on long journeys. The initiative is part of a broader drive to future-proof the country’s infrastructure, making it resilient and adaptive to the rapid technological changes shaping global mobility.

Greenwood’s career in transport policy is nothing short of illustrious. Before her current role, she was deeply involved in shaping transport policy as the Shadow Rail Minister from 2011 to 2015, where she pushed for improvements in the rail sector to reduce emissions and enhance public transport efficiency. In her role as chair of the Transport Select Committee from 2017 to 2020, she led comprehensive reviews into transport safety and infrastructure, often advocating for a greener and more inclusive transport network. These experiences have equipped her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in transitioning to a low-carbon future.

The London EV Show is known as a premier platform for exploring the latest advancements in the electric vehicle sector. It attracts global attendees, including industry leaders, tech innovators, and government officials, eager to share perspectives on the future of transport. At this year’s event, Greenwood’s speech at the London EV Show is expected to highlight collaborative efforts with private enterprises to accelerate next-generation EV technologies, focusing on areas such as battery efficiency and charging speed.

The event also comes at a crucial time for the UK, as the country continues to face pressure to meet its decarbonisation targets amidst fluctuating economic conditions. By focusing on electric vehicles, the government aims to not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also stimulate economic growth by creating jobs in the green technology sector. Greenwood’s message is expected to highlight how investments in sustainable infrastructure can drive both environmental and economic benefits, particularly as the country seeks to position itself as a leader in the global EV market.

Moreover, the minister will likely address challenges such as range anxiety, which remains a significant barrier to widespread EV adoption. As more consumers consider making the switch from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric alternatives, the need for an extensive, reliable network of charging stations has never been more urgent. Greenwood’s vision for the future of roads includes expanding the existing infrastructure, encouraging local councils to adopt EV-friendly policies, and promoting public-private partnerships to accelerate deployment.

Her address will also resonate with local authorities, urging them to prioritise green transport solutions in urban planning. The government’s ongoing initiatives, including subsidies for EV purchases and incentives for installing home charging stations, have already started to gain traction. Greenwood is expected to advocate for a collaborative approach, encouraging local governments, businesses, and communities to work together to build a sustainable transport ecosystem.

With only a few years left before the government’s ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars comes into effect in 2030, the urgency of Greenwood’s message will not be lost on her audience. The London EV Show is thus set to become a pivotal moment for the UK’s road to electrification, and the Minister’s speech could provide the momentum needed to drive the nation forward.

In addition to the EV initiatives, Greenwood will address how future road developments can integrate with public transport to create a seamless, eco-friendly travel experience. By leveraging digital technologies, the government aims to create smart roads that can support autonomous vehicles and optimise traffic flow, reducing both congestion and emissions. Greenwood’s vision encompasses not just the present challenges but also anticipates the needs of the future, ensuring that the UK’s transport network remains resilient, innovative, and green.

As the session concludes, all eyes will be on Greenwood at the London EV Show to see how her strategies align with the broader goals of the Department for Transport. The event is expected to spark significant discussion on how the UK can set an example in the shift to a low-carbon transport future.