In a pivotal moment for the UK’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape, Zapmap, the nation’s premier EV charging platform, has unveiled its annual satisfaction rankings for rapid and ultra-rapid public charging networks. The rankings highlight top-performing networks in the ‘Large’ and ‘Medium’ categories, with Tesla and Fastned earning the top positions, respectively. Now in its seventh year, this survey is the UK’s most comprehensive source of insight into the EV driver experience, capturing the perspectives of over 3,700 battery electric vehicle (BEV) drivers during October 2024.
Evolution of Network Categories Reflects Expanding Infrastructure
Given the impressive expansion of charging networks in the UK, Zapmap introduced a two-tier system to better represent the market. Networks are grouped based on their reach: ‘Large’ networks, with more than 300 charge points, and ‘Medium’ networks, with 100 to 300 charge points. This year’s rankings reflect not only the volume of available infrastructure but also drivers’ satisfaction with reliability, ease of use, customer support, cost, and payment convenience.
Leading the ‘Large Network’ Category: Tesla’s First Win for Accessibility and Value
Tesla emerged as the top performer in the ‘Large’ network category, with drivers noting its blend of reliability, user-friendly interfaces, and affordability. Until recently exclusive to Tesla owners, the brand has now opened over 860 chargers across 80+ hubs to all EV users, enhancing its national presence and inclusivity. Tesla’s competitive pricing proved a significant advantage, offering some of the most budget-friendly charging options among rapid and ultra-rapid networks. With this recognition, Tesla is Zapmap’s ‘Best EV Charging Network 2025’ in the ‘Large’ network category.
Other Leading Large Networks: MFG EV Power, Osprey Charging, and Be.EV
In second place, MFG EV Power has established over 780 chargers at 195 locations nationwide, providing consistent reliability and seamless payment systems, earning them a 3.8-star rating and Zapmap’s ‘EV Driver Recommended’ title. Martin Symes, EV Director at MFG, expressed pride in this recognition, reinforcing their commitment to making EV charging accessible and reliable.
Osprey Charging, a longstanding favorite among EV users, ranked third, noted for its ease of use and accessibility at more than 1,200 devices across 380 locations. “Being a recommended network five years running speaks to the quality and reliability our drivers expect,” said Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging.
New to the rankings, Be.EV claimed fourth place. With 579 chargers in 179 locations, the company’s focus on customer experience and community-driven growth has quickly resonated with drivers, particularly with their accessible ‘big green hubs.’
Fastned Reigns Supreme in the ‘Medium Network’ Category
European EV network leader Fastned topped the ‘Medium’ category for the second consecutive year, with drivers lauding its distinctive yellow canopy-covered hubs at 26 locations nationwide. Known for excellent reliability, ease of use, and flexible payment options, Fastned achieved a 4.1-star rating, securing Zapmap’s ‘Best EV Charging Network 2025’ title for the medium category. Tom Hurst, UK Country Director at Fastned, expressed gratitude to users, emphasizing their commitment to evolving alongside driver needs.
In a close second, Ionity has established itself as a highly reliable medium network, garnering praise for user-friendliness across 270 devices in 37 locations. With a mission to quadruple its locations by 2025, Ionity is committed to expanding its network and enhancing EV charging convenience.
Recognizing Emerging Networks: Sainsbury’s Smart Charge
Zapmap introduced the ‘Up-and-coming Network’ category to spotlight new networks making a notable impact despite smaller footprints. This year, Sainsbury’s Smart Charge took the honor. Launched in January 2024, Smart Charge has rapidly scaled its infrastructure, with 150kW hubs now available at 62 Sainsbury’s stores. Integrating charging with Nectar rewards has proven popular, and as Smart Charge continues its expansion, it’s well-positioned for future rankings.
A Record Year for Zapmap’s Annual Survey
The 2024 Zapmap survey emphasized that reliability and value for money are primary factors for EV drivers navigating the growing UK network landscape. Melanie Shufflebotham, Zapmap Co-founder and COO, commented on the increasingly important role of affordability alongside reliability in drivers’ choices. The full survey report will provide further insights into EV ownership and public network usage trends.
With EV adoption accelerating, this year’s results underscore the critical role of reliable, accessible, and cost-effective charging networks in supporting the UK’s green transition. As networks continue to innovate and expand, Zapmap’s rankings offer drivers a clear view of the best the UK’s charging infrastructure has to offer.
