Sainsbury’s Leads the Charge with New Ultra-Rapid EV Charging Service in Leicester
Sainsbury’s, one of the UK’s leading supermarket chains, has once again demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and innovation with the launch of its new electric vehicle (EV) charging service at Fosse Park, Leicester. This initiative introduces a cutting-edge ultra-rapid hub at the store on the Grove Farm Triangle, marking a significant step towards facilitating the widespread adoption of electric vehicles across the country.
The announcement comes hot on the heels of Sainsbury’s unveiling of Smart Charge earlier this month, a dedicated electric vehicle charging business aimed at providing drivers with access to ultra-rapid EV charging points conveniently located at its stores throughout the UK. The establishment of the new Smart Charge hub at Fosse Park represents a milestone in this endeavour, offering drivers the fastest type of EV charging currently available on the market, capable of delivering a full charge in as little as 30 minutes, providing enough power to travel up to 200 miles.
At the heart of this innovative service are 12 ultra-rapid 150kW+ Smart Charge bays, with plans to expand by adding six more bays by the summer. This expansion will position the Fosse Park hub as the largest Smart Charge facility in the UK, further solidifying Sainsbury’s commitment to providing accessible and efficient charging solutions for EV drivers nationwide.
Accessibility has been a key consideration in the design of the charging bays, with a focus on ensuring ease of use for all customers. The bays are situated in the store’s car park, offering ample space and convenient access for disabled customers and families with young children. This thoughtful approach underscores Sainsbury’s dedication to inclusivity and customer satisfaction.
Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement and EV Ventures, expressed enthusiasm for the new service, stating, “We know that demand for speedy, reliable charging facilities in the UK continues to grow, and that’s why we’ve brought Smart Charge, our new best-in-class EV charging service, to Fosse Park. We hope EV drivers will enjoy the added convenience and choice this new ultra-rapid hub provides, giving them confidence that they can top up or do a full charge at a Leicester location that’s handy for the M1. What’s more, they can even grab a coffee or pick up some groceries while they’re there.”
Beyond the immediate convenience for EV drivers, Sainsbury’s new EV charging service aligns with broader environmental and economic objectives. By facilitating the transition to electric vehicles, Sainsbury’s is contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and promoting sustainability within the transportation sector. Additionally, the availability of EV charging points at retail locations like Fosse Park enhances the overall customer experience, encouraging foot traffic and supporting local economies.
As the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, initiatives like Sainsbury’s Smart Charge represent crucial steps in building the infrastructure necessary to support widespread adoption. By combining cutting-edge technology with a customer-centric approach, Sainsbury’s is not only meeting the needs of today’s EV drivers but also shaping the future of sustainable transportation in the UK.
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