Making the switch to an electric vehicle (EV) is a big step, and for many, a positive one. Lower running costs, reduced emissions, and government support all make EVs an appealing choice.

But there’s a major challenge facing millions of would-be EV drivers across the UK: how do you charge an electric car if you don’t have a driveway?

If you live in a terraced house or flat with only on-street parking, you’ve likely encountered this issue or been put off switching to an EV altogether. In this blog, we’re breaking down the realities, the challenges, and the growing number of solutions available, including how Voltari can help you charge safely and confidently from home.

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EV Charging Without a Driveway: The Day-to-Day Reality

If you’ve got off-street parking, home charging is straightforward. But for residents in older housing areas, especially terraced streets, that’s often not an option.

What does that mean in practice?

• Less control over charging: You’re reliant on when and where public charge points are available, not necessarily when it’s convenient for you.
• ‍Higher charging costs: Public charging can be significantly more expensive than overnight home electricity rates.
• Daily inconvenience: Detours, waiting times, and weather become part of the routine.
• Safety concerns: Trailing a cable across the pavement isn’t safe, legal, or sustainable.

For many EV drivers, this becomes a long-term frustration. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to stay that way.

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Yes, You Can Charge from Home Without a Driveway

At Voltari, we specialise in EV charging installation for terraced houses and homes without off-street parking, and we do it in partnership with Kerbo Charge, using a pavement-safe cable channel that allows you to charge from home without creating trip hazards.

Here’s how it works:

• A discreet cable channel is installed in the pavement between your home and the kerb.
• Your EV charging cable runs safely through the channel, which sits level with the pavement to avoid any trip hazards.
• It’s safe for pedestrians, approved by councils, and compatible with most home charge points.
• You can park up, plug in, and charge overnight from your own electricity supply.
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Our Role at Voltari

We’re not just talking about what’s possible, we’re making it happen. Voltari handles the full installation process, including:

• A free consultation and survey to assess your home and location.
• Help with permissions and planning if your council requires it.
• Safe, professional installation of your home charge point and cable channel.
• Ongoing support from a team that understands on-street charging inside out.

We are currently delivering this solution in areas where local councils support it, including Bolton and Manchester City Centre, where trials are already underway. If your local council doesn’t yet support on-street EV charging, you can still take action: get your council on board. 

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Help with the Cost: The EV Charge Grant

Installing a charge point and cable channel is an investment, but there is help available.

The EV charge grant offers up to £350 off the cost of your home EV charger installation, depending on your circumstances.

You may be eligible if:

• You live in a flat or rented accommodation.
• You have off-street parking OR are working with a council-approved solution for on-street access.
• You meet certain property or usage criteria.

At Voltari, we’ll help you understand your eligibility and guide you through the application if you qualify. Read our blog about the EV charge grant.

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Final Thoughts: There Is a Way Forward

EV charging without a driveway isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely possible! With the right setup, the right permissions, and the right partner, you can enjoy the convenience of home charging even if you park on the street.

At Voltari, we’re committed to helping more households confidently switch to electric transport. If you’re ready to explore your options, we’re here to help.

Your property shouldn’t limit your ability to go electric. Let Voltari help you charge smarter, wherever you park. Book your free consultation.