bp pulse and the EV Network (EVN) have signed an agreement that promises to significantly expand the provision of convenient ultra-rapid charging infrastructure across the country.
The agreement with bp pulse is expected to result in the development and construction by EVN of a significant number of rapid and ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in high-traffic areas at strategically selected locations, many of which have already been secured. The agreement is understood to be one the largest of its kind in the UK and represents a major step forward in the roll out of national public charging networks.
Development and construction of the charging stations is expected to start immediately, with the location of the first forecourt already agreed, and a number of other sites are also expected to be operational by the end of 2021.
The national EV charging station roll out for bp pulse will include state of the art ‘hubs’ of between six to twelve chargers, as well as the next generation of ‘e-forecourts’ with up to 24 ultra-rapid chargers (300kW) with on-site solar PV and battery storage systems supplied by Leclanche SA. The e-forecourts will have both retail and convenience facilities for drivers while they are waiting for their cars to be charged.
Founded in 2017, EVN is an EV charging infrastructure development company. It aims to address the challenges faced by both landlords and charge point operators (CPOs) in rolling out a network of rapid and ultra-rapid EV chargers and charging infrastructure in the UK.
In August 2020, EVN received an initial £50 million investment commitment as its chosen development partner in EV charging infrastructure from SDCL Energy Efficiency Income Trust plc (“SEEIT”), the first UK listed company of its kind to invest exclusively in the energy efficiency sector.
Matteo de Renzi, CEO of bp pulse, said:
“This partnership represents a vital step forward in our commitment to make ultra-rapid charging widely accessible across the UK. The new hubs and e-forecourts will be built with utilisation and practicality in mind, including developments alongside the UK’s motorway network.
“Our agreement with EVN forms a complementary part of bp pulse’s UK expansion plans. We will still be expanding the provision of ultra-rapid charging on bp retail sites but are excited to be adding these exciting new formats to our portfolio of public charging solutions to help suit the needs of even more drivers.”
Reza Shaybani, Founding EVN Chief Executive, said:
“bp pulse is a perfect partner for EVN to deliver the critically required national EV charging infrastructure. This is a fantastic milestone for The EV Network and together with bp pulse we will be building the most efficient and best customer experience EV charging stations in the UK.”
In addition, bp pulse is creating a network of new rapid charging hubs across London for Uber partner drivers, which will be accessible to authorised fleet and professional drivers only. The first hub is under development and is located within Q-Park Park Lane, with more locations to be announced over the coming months.
