As the first UK charge point operator (CPO) to build accessibly designed public charging EV hubs, and an active supporter of accessibility standards such as BSI PAS1899, Osprey has long been at the forefront of establishing accessibility standards and best practices within the EV charging industry. Osprey was the first CPO to sign up to ChargeSafe, a public charging endorsement body that independently inspects and rates EV charging locations for safety and accessibility.
Accessibility is a multifaceted consideration for Osprey, encompassing not just the physical space and charger access that is essential for wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility, but also usability features that benefit all drivers manoeuvring around their vehicle with a charging cable, often while managing children or shopping bags.
Osprey's dedication to accessibility also extends beyond the physical realm, encompassing improved usability, clear visual communication, and contactless payment systems to enable easy, one-handed transactions, ensuring a seamless charging journey for all drivers, regardless of their mobility challenges.
All of Osprey’s new sites, whether high-power charging hubs or urban compact sites, are now designed to improve physical accessibility as much as possible, whilst maximising provision of charging in the space available. It also continues to work on older sites upgrading them to maximise accessibility and improve driver experience.
“We are thrilled to have Olivia join us as official Osprey Ambassador” said Ian Johnston CEO of Osprey Charging. “Her incredible achievements and advocacy for inclusivity align seamlessly with our core values. Olivia is not only a remarkable athlete but also a wonderful person, and we are delighted to have her on board as a role model for women in sport and a disability advocate. Together, we will raise awareness about the importance of accessible charging infrastructure, empowering drivers with disabilities to confidently transition to electric mobility.”
The collaboration allows Motability Scheme EV drivers to find a location on Osprey’s GB-wide rapid charging network, charge, and pay through the Motability Go Charge App before reviewing the location for accessibility. This seamless charging and billing, combined with the visibility of reviews from peers on the App, has been helping Osprey improve Motability Scheme drivers’ confidence in choosing and using public charging.
“I'm excited to partner with Osprey Charging and to be able to contribute to their mission of making EV charging accessible to everyone” Olivia Breen, official Osprey Ambassador. “As an advocate for disability rights, I understand the challenges faced by those with mobility issues. Osprey's commitment to inclusive design and their drive to improve the entire charging experience is truly commendable. Together I hope we can inspire confidence in drivers of all abilities to embrace electric vehicles.”
In September last year Osprey was selected by Motability Operations, the UK’s largest leasing company and the organisation that delivers the Motability Scheme to over 690,000 disabled people, as their first charge point operator (CPO) partner.
As the UK's EV charging landscape continues to evolve, Osprey Charging remains steadfast in its mission to champion inclusivity and empower drivers of all abilities to embrace sustainable electric mobility confidently.
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