BP Chargemaster unveils first 150KW EV chargers

BP Chargemaster has unveiled its first 150kW ultra-fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers, the first in a planned network of ultra-fast charging infrastructure stretching across the UK.

Two of the new chargers are now installed at BP’s retail site at Cranford near Heathrow airport, west of London and began operating last week.

They are the first in a planned rollout of 400 ultra-fast chargers at BP sites across the UK by the end of 2021.

2,271 battery-electric cars were sold in July, a 158% increase on the same month last year, according to the latest Society of Motor Traders and Manufacturers (SMMT) figures.

David Newton, chief operating officer of BP Chargemaster, said: ‘We believe our establishment of a nationwide ultra-fast charging network will be transformative for the electric vehicle market in the UK.

‘Working closely with global vehicle manufacturers, we are developing the solutions that electric vehicle drivers need to enable them to charge confidently and conveniently, wherever they are in the country.

‘BP’s forecourts are ideal locations for this technology, which will provide an expected dwell time of 10-12 minutes, not dissimilar from the average of around seven minutes spent by drivers of petrol and diesel cars on a forecourt today.’

Last month, pub and restaurant firm Mitchells & Butlers agreed a deal with BP Chargemaster that will see rapid EV charge points installed at 200 of its sites.

The Ultracharge 50kW rapid chargers will operate on the Polar network, which is backed with 100% renewable electricity, and will be available to use on either a pay-as-you-go or subscription basis.

In other related news, BP Chargemaster recently entered into an agreement with mobile transportation platform DiDi to develop EV charging infrastructure across China.

Photo Credit – BP ChargemasterBP