A successful electric vehicle showcase has taken place on the Brighton seafront.
The Charge & Drive event, held on Madeira Drive on Thursday, was a free community experience day dedicated to electric vehicles (EVs).
The event, organised in partnership with Brighton and Hove City Council, was an opportunity for people to hear about the council’s plans to expand the city’s EV network of chargers, test drive an electric vehicle, and speak to industry experts.
The event featured a test drive zone, where attendees could experience a variety of electric vehicles for themselves, and expert talks and panel discussions on key topics, such as the benefits of EVs, the future of transport, and the latest charging infrastructure.
The event welcomed more than 600 visitors from across the city and beyond, with more than 280 test drives recorded across 27 different electric vehicles, from compact city cars to cutting-edge vans and SUVs.
Harrison Hughes, event director, said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better response from the public.
“The interest in EVs is clearly growing – not just from those looking to buy right now, but from people wanting to learn, experience, and understand.
“This wasn’t a sales event. It was about education, accessibility, and community.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved – and grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.”
The event was supported by key partners, including Blink Charging UK, Char.gy, BYD Europe, and Rossetts Commercial Vehicles, who were on hand to offer advice, showcase charging solutions, and talk about the future of electric transport.
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Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport, parking and public realm, said: “It was great to be part of such a fantastic event, and to meet so many people interested and passionate about the future of EV charging in the city.
“Brighton and Hove is leading the way in growing our charging infrastructure with thousands more charge points being installed over the next few years.
“As this event showed, the popularity of electric vehicles is surging and we’re determined to be a beacon for public EV charging.
“Come to Brighton and Hove and recharge.”
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Visitors had the chance to drive a variety of vehicles – including models from Mercedes Benz, BYD, Ford, BMW, MINI, MG, and many more – all for free and with zero sales pressure.
Families, local business owners, and even a few sceptics walked away better informed about EVs and their real-world benefits, organisers said.
Charge & Drive will return as part of the London to Brighton Electric Vehicle Rally on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
