Sainsbury’s Reaches 500 EV Charging Bays with New Ultra-Rapid Service Rollout

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Sainsbury’s has made significant strides in supporting the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK with the installation of over 500 charging bays nationwide. This milestone comes following the launch of its latest Smart Charge hub at its Tamworth store in Staffordshire. The initiative is part of Sainsbury’s commitment to developing a robust EV charging network, which is owned and operated entirely by the supermarket.

The Smart Charge service is powered by 100% renewable energy, aligning with Sainsbury’s broader goal of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability across its operations. With its ultra-rapid charging capabilities, the network aims to make on-the-go EV charging more accessible, helping the UK transition toward a low-carbon economy.

A Weekly Expansion in Key Areas Across the UK

One of the most notable aspects of Sainsbury’s Smart Charge rollout is its rapid expansion. In just over a year, the company has launched 62 Smart Charge hubs across the UK, delivering 500 charging bays in total. On average, a new Smart Charge hub opens each week, and the company plans to maintain this pace, focusing on high-demand areas to ensure customers always have a nearby charging option.

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement, and EV Ventures, highlighted the importance of accessibility in promoting EV adoption. “Today we’ve reached another fantastic milestone in the rollout of Smart Charge with the launch of our 500th charging bay,” Dunne said. “We know that a lack of readily available public charging points and long wait times to use existing services can be barriers to EV adoption in the UK, and we’re on a mission to improve this wherever we can.” He added that the company is prioritising regions where demand for EV charging infrastructure is particularly high, ensuring that drivers across the UK can benefit from this growing network.

A Convenient, Ultra-Rapid Charging Experience

Each Smart Charge hub offers up to 18 ultra-rapid charging points, designed to charge vehicles as quickly and efficiently as possible. Equipped with 150kW charging bays, the hubs allow drivers to power up their EVs in as little as 30 minutes, providing a convenient solution for people with busy schedules. The hubs also feature accessible bays with additional space, ensuring that every driver can charge their vehicle with ease and confidence.

Alongside the convenience of ultra-rapid charging, Sainsbury’s has also integrated its loyalty program, Nectar, into the service. Drivers who use Smart Charge hubs can earn Nectar points for every pound spent on charging, making it an attractive option for loyal Sainsbury’s customers who are looking to maximise their rewards.

Sainsbury’s Commitment to a Sustainable Future

The Smart Charge network stands out as the only ultra-rapid EV charging network that is both owned and operated by a UK supermarket, reflecting Sainsbury’s commitment to sustainable innovation. By powering its charging hubs with 100% renewable energy, Sainsbury’s aligns this new initiative with the renewable electricity that already supports its stores and operations. This alignment reinforces the company’s pledge to reduce its environmental footprint while contributing to the UK’s broader goals for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The availability of reliable, renewable-powered charging infrastructure is essential for the widespread adoption of EVs in the UK. As drivers become more conscious of their environmental impact, having access to convenient and sustainable charging options can help alleviate concerns about charging availability, which has historically been a barrier to EV adoption.

Looking Ahead

Sainsbury’s Smart Charge network continues to grow, and with a new hub opening weekly, more communities across the UK can expect convenient access to ultra-rapid charging. This expansion plan underscores Sainsbury’s leadership in the retail sector’s shift toward sustainable transportation infrastructure, setting an example for other businesses to follow.

As the UK strives to meet its low-carbon goals, initiatives like Sainsbury’s Smart Charge will play a pivotal role in reducing emissions by supporting the shift to electric vehicles. With each new hub and charging bay installed, Sainsbury’s demonstrates its commitment to making EV ownership more viable, accessible, and rewarding for all drivers.

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