Renowned designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen is on a vibrant mission to revolutionize the visibility of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the UK’s motorways. Famous for infusing bold creativity into interior spaces, Laurence is now turning his flair towards the nation’s highways, aiming to put the spotlight on Britain’s burgeoning EV charging network.
Recent research reveals that many drivers underestimate the size of the UK’s charging infrastructure by half. A primary reason is outdated motorway signage laws that restrict how and where EV chargers can be signposted, leaving thousands of charging points hidden in plain sight along major routes, retail parks, and service areas.
Unlike petrol stations, which benefit from prominent signage on major roads, EV chargers face strict rules limiting their visibility. To address this, Laurence has teamed up with GRIDSERVE, one of the UK’s leading EV charging networks, taking on the role of ‘Chief Visibility Officer.’ His goal: to make charging points impossible to miss.
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Sporting a fluorescent highlighter-yellow suit, Laurence applied his signature bold design sensibility to create eye-catching mobile signs featuring vivid colors and a quirky self-portrait, designed to spotlight the “shocking” lack of existing signage. These new designs will travel along key highways near charge points, guiding drivers toward the nearest EV stations.
Laurence debuted the initiative in an electric ad-van, engaging with motorists at GRIDSERVE’s Electric Forecourt in Stevenage—an award-winning facility that offers 24/7 high-powered charging bays, coffee shops, convenience stores, and free WiFi. Despite these amenities, the Electric Forecourts remain difficult to find due to current signage regulations.
One driver humorously suggested adding pink flamingos to mark EV spots, highlighting the desire for fun and memorable charging experiences. Laurence echoed this sentiment: “The rules around signage for EV chargers are outdated – it should be as natural and visible as a petrol pump. I want to spark a little joy into the process of powering up and make the UK’s charging network a design icon in its own right with bright and beautiful signage."
GRIDSERVE CEO Daniel Kunkel emphasized the importance of supporting updated signage regulations to accelerate EV adoption: “With one of Europe’s fastest-growing charging networks, making chargers easy to find is key to helping drivers feel confident about switching to electric. In an EV, you have the freedom to make any journey you want.”
Laurence’s campaign aims not only to improve practical visibility but also to celebrate EV infrastructure as a vibrant, modern feature of Britain’s roadsides — the new pit stops for an electrified future.