Nissan and Ecotricity expand partnership to boost UK EV charging infrastructure

NissanEV

EV:  Refuelling the electric way

Nissan are further demonstrating their commitment to making electric driving accessible to all, by extending the UK’s existing charging network.

Installed at Welcome Break sites on motorways, 13 new rapid chargers represent the latest phase of work completed by Nissan and Ecotricity.

There are currently 16 rapid chargers available at Welcome Break service stations on the motorway, with plans to install at the majority of Welcome Break sites by April 2014.

The new additions mean the total number of rapid chargers in the UK is now 97.

Forming the UK’s first publicly accessible rapid charging network on the motorway, the chargers are capable of ‘refuelling’ an all-electric Nissan LEAF from 0 to 80% battery capacity in just 30minutes.

Jim Wright, Managing Director of Nissan GB, said: “Nissan is working hard to ensure that 100% electric driving becomes accessible for all UK motorists and the installation of a rapid charging network on the motorway opens up EV ownership to thousands more motorists.

“The UK’s charging landscape is improving daily, and we are very proud to be the main power source driving the development of infrastructure that will ultimately provide further flexibility and peace of mind to our LEAF drivers.”

Dale Vince, Founder of Ecotricity, added: “The main barrier in people’s mind to the take up of electric cars is their travel range and charging times.

“Really these issues are one and the same.

“Concern over the distance that an electric car will travel on a single charge, called range anxiety, can be overcome if you have the right charging infrastructure in the right locations – to quickly recharge.”

The new rapid charging network at Welcome Break service stations is part of a long-term plan by Nissan to install more than 150 rapid chargers across the UK by April 2014.

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