GRIDSERVE and Roadchef are set to revolutionise the electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape at Roadchef Motorway Service Areas (MSA) across the UK. This initiative, driven by Roadchef’s commitment to sustainability, is aimed at facilitating Britain’s transition to a safer and more eco-friendly transportation ecosystem. The plan entails the deployment of a minimum of six 350kW-capable EV chargers at each site, with the first two Electric Super Hubs already operational at Watford Gap North and South on the M1 motorway. Additional locations, including Annandale Water (A74(M)), Bothwell (M74), Chester (M56), and Sandbach (M6), are scheduled to open soon.
This ambitious project involves the construction of more than 50 charging stations across these six sites to meet the surging demand for EV charging in the UK. Of these, 48 High Power chargers are strategically positioned to facilitate long-distance travel, while six Low Power 7kW AC chargers will cater to guests at the new Chester Services Super 8 Hotel, offering convenient overnight charging options.
Watford Gap South. Image: GRIDSERVE
Roadchef and GRIDSERVE are making substantial investments to equip these locations with 350kW-capable chargers, setting a remarkable precedent for Motorway Service Areas in the country. In an innovative move, Roadchef plans to enhance the EV charging experience by providing shelter for motorists during the charging process in the second phase of development.
To ensure a seamless and user-friendly charging experience, all GRIDSERVE Electric Super Hubs will feature both CCS and CHAdeMO connectors, accept contactless payments, and provide real-time status updates on popular EV charging maps. What’s more, these chargers are powered by 100% net-zero carbon energy, sourced from GRIDSERVE’s pioneering hybrid solar and battery farms, aligning with their commitment to combat climate change.
Toddington Harper, CEO of GRIDSERVE, expressed enthusiasm about this venture, emphasising its importance in expanding the GRIDSERVE Electric Highway. He stated, “The 18 High Power chargers at Watford Gap are a very welcome addition on the M1, and it’s great to see the new Scottish Electric Super Hubs at Annandale Water and Bothwell beginning to take shape, supporting EV journeys in and around Scotland. 2023 marks a year of rapid growth for the GRIDSERVE Electric Highway, and these new locations are vital to give drivers the range and charging confidence on their journeys throughout the UK.”
Paul Comer, Director of EV Implementation at Roadchef, emphasised their commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and outlined the role of this investment in advancing their sustainability goals and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) achievements. He noted that as the majority of road travellers will soon be in EVs, expanding and upgrading their facilities is essential to meet growing demand while ensuring customer satisfaction.
Currently, Roadchef boasts over 40 GRIDSERVE Medium Power chargers and 24 standalone AC chargers spread across 29 sites. Further expansion of EV charging infrastructure is anticipated in the coming year, as Roadchef continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of EV travel in the UK.
