Motorway service station operator Moto has announced plans to install ultra-rapid EV chargers at all its UK sites.
The first stage of the initiative is an installation of 12 Tesla and 12 Electric Highway 350kW DC chargers at the newly-opened Rugby Services, said to be the largest ultra-rapid charging site on the motorway.
The chargers have the capability to add up to 100 miles of range in less than five minutes and will accept contactless payment.
A total of 28 Moto sites are set to have ultra-rapid chargers by the end of this year and the company plans to install 24 charger locations at sites in Reading, Thurrock, and Exeter.
The aim is to equip all Moto services with at least six ultra-rapid chargers by the end of 2022, as part of an investment programme of more than £100m, including an upgrade to all existing 50kW chargers by the end of July 2021.
Ken McMeikan, chief executive of Moto, said, “Moto is committed to sustainable motoring and we want to play a key part in encouraging more people to have the confidence to switch into electric vehicles.
“Rugby Services is the most significant first step in achieving this and we’re proud to be launching the UK’s largest EV charging site.
“Our vision is to transform the UK’s rest stop experience and we think motorists will be delighted with the new Moto site at Rugby, particularly as they begin travelling again following easing of Covid-19 restrictions to see family, friends and loved ones.”
Dale Vince, founder of the Electric Highway, added, “Moto is a founding partner of the Electric Highway and this is our first ultra-rapid installation, which comes at a tipping point in the adoption of electric vehicles.
“The installation comes at the beginning of a new partnership with Gridserve, which kickstarts a comprehensive programme where these installations will become ubiquitous across all Moto services, helping to make the experience of using an electric car no different to using a fossil-powered one.”
