CM
Chen Motors
Book now
Electric & charging

EV charging in the West Midlands — every rapid charger that actually works

We drove 340 miles testing 62 chargers across the West Midlands. Here's the honest list — what's fast, what's broken, and which apps to avoid.
DC
David Chen
15 April 2026 · 11 min read

Birmingham sits almost exactly in the middle of England. In 90 minutes you can be on a moor, in a spa town, or on a Welsh mountain pass.

1. Snake Pass · 84 miles

The A57 through the Dark Peak is properly dramatic: sharp bends, grit-stone edges, long sight-lines. Pack the car the night before and be away by 8am.

  • Best car: Audi A4 or 3-series
  • Fuel stop: Shell at Glossop
  • Lunch: Cheshire Cheese, Hope
“One renter did all seven in one weekend in a Kia Niro EV. Total charge cost: £14.80.”
Plan your weekend
Weekend-ready cars · from £48/day
Browse fleet →
Hire a car in Birmingham
From £48/day · instant book
Book now