Brisbane-based EV charging specialist Tritium has signed a “huge deal” to be the sole supplier for DC fast chargers to new United Kingdom-wide EV charging network Drive Energi.
Box Energi-owned Drive Energi is targeting the installation of 2500 rapid EV charging locations across the UK and, once completed, will all but eliminate range anxiety there, Tritium says.
It will create one of the world’s largest single-country DC charging networks, each station featuring up to two Tritium Veefil-RT 50kW DC fast chargers (known in the UK as rapid chargers).
The chargers can add 100km of range in 20 minutes.
At least 100 sites will be live by the end of January 2020.
“These chargers are not only the fastest and most advanced in their class, but incredibly easy to use and, with the world’s smallest physical footprint, to deploy as well – particularly in our cities and high-density areas where space is increasingly limited,” Drive Energi chief executive officer James Moat says.
Tritium will supply 24/7 support for the network.
The company recently opened its Tritium E-Mobility Innovation Centres in Brisbane and Amsterdam, the increase in production capability timely considering the new deal.
“As the nation increasingly looks to electrify transportation, and as the Ultra Low Emission Zone scheme comes into effect, the need for reliable, smart and easy-to-use charging infrastructure is critical,” Tritium UK and Ireland business development manager Kevin Pugh says.
“With the average daily commute in the UK in the vicinity of 32km, a single 20-minute charge will add about three days of range to an EV.
“The sheer scope of the proposed Drive Energi network means that people will easily be able to find a charger, no matter where they are and no matter when they need it.”
Drive Energi will be a mix of publicly available and private charging solutions across the UK.
