Be.EV has opened a charging hub in Manchester – the first funded via its £55m debt financing partnership with NatWest and German project and export financier KfW IPEX-Bank.
The facility at the Hulme Retail Park features six ultra-rapid charging bays, offering up to 165 miles of range in 20 minutes and powered by renewable energy supplied by Octopus Energy.
It is a direct response to the growing need for accessible EV infrastructure in areas such as Hulme, where many residents lack off-street parking.
Drivers are able to charge using their Be.EV app or RFID card.
About 60% of households in Manchester do not have off-street parking – compared to a UK average of around 40%.
Be.EV’s network is expected to hit a total of 1,600 charge points this year.
Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, said, “This new site in the south of Manchester highlights the power of collaboration, with our deal with NatWest and KfW IPEX-Bank paving the way for the efficient expansion of ultra-rapid, reliable EV charging.
“This trailblazing partnership demonstrates how public sector vision, private expertise, and backing from national banks can make a real impact – accelerating the nationwide roll-out of EV infrastructure and bringing charging solutions to communities that need them most.”
Bruce Riley, head of energy transition at NatWest, said, “Developing a high-quality, reliable network of charge points across the UK is central to encouraging the adoption of battery electric vehicles nationally that will help decarbonise the transport system.
“NatWest is delighted to play its part through financing these investments.”
