Signal Anxiety Overtakes Range anxiety: Virgin Media O2 Boosts Mobile Coverage on Key UK Roads to Fuel EV Adoption
The shift to electric vehicles is gaining momentum, but a surprising new concern is emerging for drivers: not running out of charge, but losing connectivity. New data from Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) reveals that “signal anxiety” – the fear of losing mobile connection on a journey - now surpasses customary “range anxiety” among EV drivers. Recognizing this critical need, VMO2 has completed significant upgrades to its 4G and 5G network along over 40 major UK motorways and A-roads, spanning 590 miles.
This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about enabling the future of transportation. As the UK Budget looms with potential EV-focused measures,robust digital infrastructure is paramount. VMO2’s investment, part of a £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, directly addresses the growing reliance on connectivity for a seamless EV experience.
Pinpointing and Fixing Connectivity Blackspots
VMO2 didn’t just blanket the network with upgrades. Their approach was data-driven, utilizing a comprehensive drive testing programme to identify specific areas of weak coverage. this allowed for targeted improvements, prioritizing upgrades and new site deployments where they were most needed.
The result? Optimized coverage on vital corridors like the M1 (London-Leeds), M4 (London-Bristol), M6 (Coventry-Carlisle), and M8 (Glasgow-Edinburgh). Further enhancements are planned for the A14 (Rugby-Ipswich), M20 (London-Folkestone), and A75 (Gretna-Stranraer). These upgrades include a ample boost – 4G improvements to 311 sites and the addition of 338 new 5G builds – substantially enhancing network performance and reliability for all road users.
Why Connectivity is Now Crucial for EV Drivers
The VMO2 polling data is compelling. 76% of EV drivers express worry about losing mobile connectivity,fearing disconnection from essential services like navigation,real-time charger updates,location information,and even mobile payment systems.This surpasses the 68% who still cite range anxiety as a primary concern. For non-EV drivers,range anxiety remains the dominant worry at 90%.
This data underscores a fundamental truth: connectivity is becoming as vital to EV adoption as the availability of charging infrastructure. Drivers need reliable access to information and services to confidently navigate and manage their journeys.
A Synergistic Approach: Connectivity & Charging Infrastructure
VMO2’s commitment extends beyond network upgrades. Through its co-owner, Liberty Global, the company is supporting Believ, an EV charge point operator, in the installation of up to 30,000 new public charging points across the UK. Crucially, many of these charging points are located in areas where VMO2 has recently improved mobile coverage.
This synergy is deliberate. Reliable mobile connectivity is essential for locating charging stations, initiating charging sessions, and processing payments seamlessly. It creates a more user-friendly and stress-free EV experience.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
“Connectivity underpins a huge part of the driving experience today, but particularly for EVs,” explains Jeanie York, Chief Technology Officer at Virgin Media O2. “By optimising coverage on more than 40 motorways and A-roads as part of our £700m investment in our Mobile Transformation Plan, we’re helping make every journey safer and more reliable. Alongside Believ’s new charging points, this is about removing barriers so more people can make the switch to electric with confidence.”
Guy Bartlett, CEO at Believ, echoes this sentiment: “This is a brilliant example of private industry coming together with the shared purpose of helping drivers make a seamless transition to electric vehicles. the enhanced connectivity is great news, giving drivers even more reason to feel confident and excited about switching to EVs.”
VMO2’s proactive approach to addressing “signal anxiety” demonstrates a deep understanding of the evolving needs of EV drivers and a commitment to building the digital infrastructure necessary to support a lasting transportation future. This investment isn’t just about improving mobile service; it’s about accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and empowering drivers with the confidence they need to embrace a cleaner, more connected future.
