Sainsbury’s has opened an ultra-rapid EV charging hub at its Warren Heath Superstore in Ipswich, as part of the Smart Charge network.
Located in the store’s car park, and close to the A14, drivers can use the eight ultra-rapid 150kW+ Smart Charge bays, collecting Nectar points while they charge.
The new service will allow customers to charge EVs in 30 minutes, providing enough power to travel up to 200 miles.
Bays have been designed to be easily accessible for disabled customers, as well as those with young children.
Smart Charge, launched at the beginning of 2024, is the first and only EV charging business to be fully owned and managed end-to-end by a UK supermarket.
It is now available via 427 ultra-rapid charging bays at 52 Sainsbury’s locations, with new charging hubs being added to the network regularly.
Smart Charge also offers customers benefits from loyalty programme, Nectar, allowing them to collect points to spend on products.
Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement & EV Ventures, said, “We know that demand for speedy, reliable and sustainable EV charging facilities in the UK continues to grow – that’s why Sainsbury’s is rolling out Smart Charge, our new best-in-class ultra-rapid charging service, at supermarkets up and down the country.
“We hope EV drivers will enjoy the added convenience and choice our new Warren Heath hub provides, giving them confidence that they can top up or do a full charge at our second Suffolk location.
“What’s more, they can even grab a coffee or pick up some groceries while they’re there, all while being rewarded for their charge by collecting Nectar points.”
