Moto, one of the UK’s largest motorway services operators, plans to install just over 1,600 ultra-rapid EV chargers by the end of the decade, and it has now opened 12 new ultra-rapid chargers at Moto Reading Westbound on the M4. This brings to 211 the total number of ultra-rapid chargers owned by Moto.
The new chargers are supplied by renewable energy and the charging hub has been opened by Moto, GRIDSERVE and Tesla.
The 350kW-capable ultra-rapid chargers can deliver up to 100 miles of range in less than 10 minutes.
By integrating further EV charging capabilities in the Midlands region, an extensive network is being created allowing EV drivers to navigate around the area via motorway networks. By having sufficient amounts of service stations with EV charging capabilities, this helps to decrease range anxiety and could in turn prompt further drivers to switch to EVs.
“When we opened our first ultra-rapid EV Charging Hub at Moto Rugby, we knew it represented a major turning point in the feasibility of EV vehicle ownership – signalling the arrival of more accessible, more reliable and quicker on-the-go charging options,” said Moto chief executive Ken McMeikan.
“Now, just 18 months later, having over 200 such charge points across our network are a vast achievement. Together, with our partners, we have overcome significant planning, legal and infrastructure barriers to deliver a better charging experience for EV owners, as well as make the prospect of EV ownership more attractive.
Several other electric charging hubs have been developed across Moto’s service stations in the UK. Exeter had previously been touted as a potential area for an electric charging hub for Moto as part of a deal with GRIDSERVE to integrate 24 high-power EV chargers alongside Swansea and Burton-in-Kendal.