Electric Vehicles (EVs) are considered a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles. This is due to the lower emissions they produce and the opportunity to reduce society’s dependence on fossil fuels their introduction to our roads presents. However, it is equally important that EVs are accessible and inclusive as their usage becomes more commonplace.
As is the case with anyone living in the modern world, people with disabilities often depend on vehicles to travel long-distance, making it imperative that EV charging points are reviewed for accessibility before installation. Elements such as cable weight, height from the ground, and the proportion and quantity of accessible EV chargers depending on the size and location of the car park are all considered when our access auditing team reviews EV charging points.
Ordinary people with disabilities often struggle to operate electric car charging points due to factors like their placement in relation to accessible parking bays and facility height (adversely affecting people of short stature, as well as wheelchair users). Another frequently occurring issue is that EV chargers are often fitted with high curbs. Sometimes there are even bollards in front, which are in place to protect the charge point but prevent access to mobility-impaired drivers.
Direct Access is proud to be leading the charge when it comes to EV accessibility, championing the benefits not only to draw attention to and promote the independence of disabled drivers, but allow site owners to attract a diverse range of visitors. Sadly, our particular standard for truly inclusive charger points are not universally understood nor mandated by the U.S government as of yet.
However, as the number of electric vehicles grows, the U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board has suggested new accessibility guidelines for facilities covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”) and the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (“ABA”). These guidelines specifically address the accessibility of electric vehicle (“EV”) charging stations and designated parking areas. If implemented, the proposed rules would affect a wide range of buildings and facilities, including office complexes, shopping centers, hotels, gas stations, and eateries.
As access consultants, we encourage the Biden-Harris’ administrations National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program (NEVI), which aims to create a network of 500,000 user-friendly, reliable, and accessible EV chargers by 2030. Recognizing that disabilities can vary widely, our goal is to encourage accessible EV charging provisions through our audits to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their physical or sensory capabilities, can effectively use EV charging stations. By considering the diverse needs of users, we move closer to achieving a truly inclusive design.
We, therefore, encourage you to book an ADA accessibility audit with Direct Access if you manage an EV charging facility to ensure that you understand exactly what is required to offer a truly inclusive, barrier-free experience for disabled and non-disabled drivers alike. In the ever-changing world of accessibility, acting now can ensure compliance with future laws as electric vehicle usage becomes more widespread, while also increasing the likelihood of disabled people engaging with your business or facility. Get in touch with a member of our team today.
EVs are thought of as a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles. This is due to the lower emissions they produce and a substantially reduced dependence on fossil fuels, made possible through their introduction to our roads. However, it is equally important that EVs are accessible and inclusive as their usage becomes more commonplace.
As is the case with anyone living in the modern world, disabled people often depend on vehicles to travel long-distance, making it imperative that EV charging points are reviewed for accessibility before installation. Elements such as weight, height from the ground, and the proportion of accessible EV charges in a given car park are all considered when our access auditing team reviews EV charging points.
Direct Access is proud to be leading the charge when it comes to EV accessibility, championing the benefits not only to draw attention to and promotes the independence of disabled drivers, but allow site owners to attract a diverse range of visitors. Sadly, our standard for truly inclusive charger points are not universally understood nor mandated by the British government. Controversially, a report from the House of Lords committee earlier this year recommended that a small fraction of new electric vehicle charging points be designated as accessible. However, this recommendation invites a limited discussion on the balance between infrastructure development and equitable access for all users.
Resultingly, this report was widely criticised by disability groups, in addition to the non-mandatory status of the leading British standard on inclusive EVs (BSI’s PAS1899 guidance).
EVs are thought of as a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles. This is due to the lower emissions they produce and a substantially reduced dependence on fossil fuels, made possible through their introduction to our roads. However, it is equally important that EVs are accessible and inclusive as their usage becomes more commonplace.
As is the case with anyone living in the modern world, disabled people often depend on vehicles to travel long-distance, making it imperative that EV charging points are reviewed for accessibility before installation. Elements such as weight, height from the ground, and the proportion of accessible EV charges in a given car park are all considered when our access auditing team reviews EV charging points.
Direct Access is proud to be leading the charge when it comes to EV accessibility, championing the benefits not only to draw attention to and promotes the independence of disabled drivers, but allow site owners to attract a diverse range of visitors. Sadly, our standard for truly inclusive charger points are not universally understood nor mandated by the British government. Controversially, a report from the House of Lords committee earlier this year recommended that a small fraction of new electric vehicle charging points be designated as accessible. However, this recommendation invites a limited discussion on the balance between infrastructure development and equitable access for all users.
Resultingly, this report was widely criticised by disability groups, in addition to the non-mandatory status of the leading British standard on inclusive EVs (BSI’s PAS1899 guidance).
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