ODS has announced the appointment of Adam Dolphin as the new Director of Gul-e, a move aimed at scaling the UK’s most significant solution for the millions of residents currently “locked out” of the EV transition due to a lack of off-street parking.
Joining ODS in January 2026, Dolphin brings 15 years of high-growth leadership experience. He most recently served as Managing Director at PayByPhone UK, where he oversaw the platform’s expansion to 15 million users. His expertise in navigating the intersection of local government requirements and consumer technology will be pivotal as Gul-e moves from a proven pilot to a nationwide infrastructure staple.
Bridging the Charging Gap
For roughly 40% of UK households, the transition to electric vehicles is hindered by a simple physical barrier: the lack of a driveway. Gul-e, developed by the local-authority-owned ODS, solves this by installing a shallow, recessed channel into the pavement. This allows residents to safely run a charging cable from their home to the kerb without creating a trip hazard for pedestrians.
“The opportunity to lead Gul-e at this inflection point is incredibly exciting,” said Adam Dolphin. “We aren’t just selling a product; we are enabling equity in transport. My focus will be on ensuring local authorities have the commercial frameworks they need to roll this out at scale, making EV ownership a reality for everyone, regardless of their housing type.“
The Oxfordshire “Mega-Contract” & LEVI Funding
Dolphin’s arrival coincides with Gul-e securing the UK’s largest-ever contract for cross-pavement charging. Partnering with Oxfordshire County Council, ODS will install up to 500 units as part of a landmark infrastructure project.
This rollout is supported by the government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) funding, a key driver in the project’s goal to deliver 1,200 public chargers across the county by 2027. This contract serves as a blueprint for how Gul-e can be integrated into broader regional decarbonization strategies.
Technical Superiority: Designed for the Streets
While “cable gully” solutions are emerging, Gul-e distinguishes itself through its civil engineering pedigree. Derived from high-grade drainage channel designs, the system is built to withstand the unique rigours of the urban environment.
| Feature | Engineering Detail | Benefit to Local Authorities |
|---|---|---|
| Material Strength | Independently lab-tested for 25-tonne loads | Resilient against heavy delivery vehicles and street cleaning. |
| Safety Profile | Non-slip chequerplate & nylon brushes | Minimizes slip/trip risks and prevents debris buildup. |
| Longevity | 12-year manufacturer warranty | Lowers the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for councils. |
| Maintenance | Open-top, no-hinge design | No moving parts to break or trap fingers; easily cleaned with a brush. |
National Momentum and Future Growth
Beyond Oxfordshire, Gul-e’s footprint is expanding rapidly. With over 220 units already active, ODS is currently facilitating trials and installations across a diverse range of UK regions:
- Strategic Partnerships: Recent agreements with Stoke-on-Trent and Suffolk County Council.
- Regional Pilots: Ongoing trials in the London Borough of Bromley, plus Buckinghamshire, Cherwell, Blaenau Gwent, and Solihull.
The appointment of Adam Dolphin signals ODS’s intention to transition Gul-e into a “one-stop-shop” for EV infrastructure. By collaborating with charging point operators (CPOs) and housing associations, ODS aims to provide a turnkey solution that includes installation, maintenance, and resident engagement.
About Gul-e
Gul-e is a pioneer in cross-pavement charging, dedicated to removing the barriers to EV ownership. Owned by ODS—a social enterprise owned by Oxford City Council—it reinvests its profits back into public services, creating a circular economy for sustainable transport.
To find out more about Gul-e, and to register your interest, visit: https://gul-e.co.uk/, or contact adam.dolphin@odsgroup.co.uk.
