UK retailer Sainsbury’s has launched Smart Charge, a new electric vehicle (EV) charging business that will give drivers access to “ultra-rapid” EV charging points across its stores.
Smart Charge will initially feature over 750 “cutting-edge ultra-rapid” charging bays rolled out across more than 100 stores by the end of 2024.
Designed to be “extremely speedy, reliable and easy to use”, Sainsbury’s 150kW Smart Charge bays allow users to fully charge their vehicle in as little as 30 minutes, providing enough power to travel up to 320km. Many of the chargers can also charge even faster if a driver’s vehicle battery can accept higher charger speeds, up to 300kW.
“As EV ownership continues to grow, it’s shocking to see that an incredible three quarters of [surveyed] EV drivers [in the UK] still suffer range anxiety and many have avoided journeys as a result,” says Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement & EV Ventures Patrick Dunne.
“With our new network of easy-to-use and reliable charging points conveniently located in our supermarkets, Smart Charge will make a real difference to EV drivers in the UK. As one of the few providers to be focusing exclusively on cutting-edge ultra-rapid 150kW+chargers, customers can be in and out in as little as half an hour and avoid waiting longer with less powerful alternatives. What’s more, they can even grab a coffee or pick up some groceries while they’re there.
“We’re committed to helping to reduce carbon emissions and offering a national EV charging service forms part of this pledge. Our new charging points are powered by the same 100% renewable electricity that powers the rest of our estate.”
Smart Charge is currently available at around 200 “ultra-rapid” charging bays at over 20 Sainsbury’s locations.