I bring extensive knowledge of the EV charging infrastructure industry, backed by years of experience in product development and content creation. This expertise allows me to provide a comprehensive guide to the top public EV charging stations in the UK. In this blog, Iโll walk you through some of the key players in the public charging landscape, offering insights into the companies driving innovation, their products, and the crucial role they play in shaping the future of electric vehicle charging.
1. BP Pulse
Location: Milton Keynes, England
Type of Business: Public EV Charging Network
Year of Establishment: 2008
Number of Employees: 700+
Main Products: EV charging stations, ultra-fast chargers, home charging solutions.
Overview: BP Pulse, formerly known as BP Chargemaster, is one of the UK’s largest and most well-known public EV charging providers. Their network spans across the UK, providing both rapid and ultra-rapid charging options at key locations, including motorway service areas, retail parks, and more. BP Pulseโs mission is to help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future by enabling customers to charge their electric vehicles efficiently and conveniently. They are at the forefront of developing fast-charging technologies, and their commitment to expanding EV infrastructure makes them a key player in the UKโs transition to electric mobility.
2. Shell Recharge
Location: London, England
Type of Business: Global Energy Company
Year of Establishment: 1907 (Shell Group); Shell Recharge launched in 2017
Number of Employees: Over 80,000 globally
Main Products: EV charging stations, electric vehicle charging services.
Overview: Shell Recharge is the EV charging arm of global energy giant Shell. The company has been rapidly expanding its public charging network, focusing on providing fast and ultra-fast chargers at various public locations across the UK. With over 1,000 charging points in operation, Shell Recharge is part of Shell’s broader efforts to transition from traditional oil and gas operations to more sustainable energy solutions. They have made significant investments in fast-charging infrastructure to ensure convenience for EV owners, helping to support the growing demand for electric mobility in the UK.
3. Ionity
Location: Munich, Germany (EU Headquarters), UK network
Type of Business: High-Power Charging Network Provider
Year of Establishment: 2017
Number of Employees: 200+
Main Products: Ultra-fast EV charging stations, high-power charging solutions.
Overview: Ionity is a joint venture between major automotive brands, including BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen Group. The companyโs primary goal is to build a high-power charging network that can support the growing number of electric vehicles on European roads. In the UK, Ionity has deployed several ultra-fast charging stations along key routes to support long-distance EV travel. Their high-power charging stations can provide up to 350 kW of power, enabling EVs to recharge in a matter of minutes. Ionity is dedicated to building a reliable and accessible charging infrastructure to support the transition to a greener automotive industry.
4. Tesla Supercharger
Location: Palo Alto, California (Global HQ), UK network
Type of Business: Electric Vehicle Manufacturer and Charging Network Provider
Year of Establishment: 2003 (Tesla); Supercharger network launched in 2012
Number of Employees: Over 127,000 globally
Main Products: Electric vehicles, Tesla Supercharger stations, energy storage solutions.
Overview: Teslaโs Supercharger network is one of the most well-known public EV charging networks, particularly for Tesla owners. While Tesla vehicles can also use third-party chargers, the Supercharger network offers a significant advantage with its exclusive fast-charging stations that are strategically placed across the UK and Europe. Teslaโs Supercharger stations can provide up to 250 kW of power, significantly reducing charging time for Tesla owners. As Tesla continues to expand its global network, it remains a cornerstone in the EV charging infrastructure, enabling long-range travel and encouraging the mass adoption of electric vehicles.
5. Pod Point
Location: London, England
Type of Business: EV Charging Provider
Year of Establishment: 2009
Number of Employees: 200+
Main Products: Public and home EV chargers, workplace charging solutions.
Overview: Pod Point is one of the UKโs most established and trusted EV charging networks. Known for both its home charging and public charging solutions, Pod Point has created a robust infrastructure that supports thousands of charging points across the country. In addition to offering fast charging solutions at popular public locations, Pod Point has also partnered with retailers like Tesco to install EV chargers in supermarket car parks. As part of its mission to make electric vehicle charging as accessible as possible, Pod Point continues to innovate and expand, helping to simplify the EV ownership experience for customers in the UK.
6. Instavolt
Location: Bristol, England
Type of Business: EV Charging Provider
Year of Establishment: 2016
Number of Employees: Not publicly disclosed
Main Products: Rapid EV charging stations.
Overview: Instavolt is a rapidly growing UK-based company specializing in providing high-speed rapid charging points for electric vehicles. Instavolt focuses on offering simple, reliable, and user-friendly charging experiences for EV owners. They have built a significant network of charging stations, strategically located at key service areas, supermarkets, and retail locations across the UK. Known for their contactless payment options and commitment to fast, 24/7 availability, Instavolt continues to expand its footprint, playing an important role in the UKโs EV infrastructure.
7. Gridserve
Location: Basingstoke, England
Type of Business: Renewable Energy and EV Charging Solutions
Year of Establishment: 2017
Number of Employees: 200+
Main Products: Electric vehicle charging stations, solar energy solutions, electric vehicle energy services.
Overview: Gridserve is revolutionizing the UK’s EV charging landscape by combining solar energy and high-speed charging technology. Gridserve is dedicated to creating a sustainable charging network that integrates renewable energy sources, reducing the carbon footprint of EV owners. Their focus on solar energy and battery storage also helps ensure that EV drivers can access clean, renewable power for their vehicles, making Gridserve a forward-thinking leader in the UK’s green energy and EV infrastructure space.
8. Wissenergy
Location: Nanjing, China
Type of Business: EV Charging Equipment Manufacturer
Year of Establishment: 2015
Number of Employees: 200+
Main Products: AC EV chargers for public areas, electric vehicle charging solutions.
Overview: Wissenergy is an international provider of EV charging solutions, headquartered in Nanjing, China. The company designs and manufactures a range of AC EV chargers, focusing on making public charging infrastructure more accessible and efficient. Wissenergy serves markets worldwide, including the UK, providing a robust and reliable charging solution for urban areas, shopping centers, and public spaces. Wissenergy continues to expand its reach, playing a crucial role in the global shift toward electric mobility.
Conclusion
As electric vehicles continue to grow in popularity, the demand for reliable and fast public EV charging stations in the UK will only increase. The companies listed above are leading the charge in creating a comprehensive and efficient charging infrastructure that supports the transition to a greener, more sustainable future. Whether youโre an EV owner or looking to invest in the electric mobility industry, these top EV charging networks offer the reliability and convenience necessary to ensure the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
Public EV Charger Questions, Answered
What is the Importance of Public EV Charging Stations?
Public EV charging stations play a crucial role in the success of electric vehicle adoption. As more people make the switch to EVs, having accessible charging points in public spaces, highways, and urban areas is essential for ensuring that drivers can conveniently top up their batteries when needed. Public chargers contribute to a larger network that helps address range anxietyโthe fear that an EV might run out of battery before reaching the next charging station.
Moreover, public charging stations make electric vehicles more viable for people who may not have access to home charging infrastructure. This includes renters, people living in apartments, or those without private garages. By having access to public charging networks, more individuals are encouraged to adopt EVs, making a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner air.
Are Public EV Charging Stations AC or DC?
Public EV chargers can be either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current), with the main difference being the speed of charging:
- AC Chargers (Level 1 and Level 2): These are the most common and are usually found in public parking lots, shopping centers, and residential areas. Level 1 chargers are slow, while Level 2 chargers provide faster charging times but are still slower than DC chargers.
- DC Fast Chargers: These chargers are typically found at highway rest stops or busy commercial areas. They charge your EV much faster than AC chargers by converting AC power into DC power directly inside the charger.
Where to Find Public EV Charging Stations?
Finding a public EV charging station has never been easier, thanks to numerous apps and websites that offer detailed maps of available locations. Popular apps like PlugShare, ChargePoint, and Google Maps allow EV owners to search for charging stations based on their current location or along specific routes.
Public charging stations are often located in places like:
- Shopping centers and malls: A convenient location for drivers to charge while shopping.
- Public parking lots: Many municipalities are adding EV chargers in city-owned parking garages or surface lots.
- Gas stations: Some traditional gas stations have begun to integrate EV chargers into their locations.
- Hotels and resorts: Many hotels are adding EV charging stations to attract eco-conscious travelers.
- Highway rest stops: Long-distance travelers can charge their EVs while taking a break during road trips.
- Workplaces: Businesses are increasingly installing charging stations for their employees.
The availability of these charging stations is expanding rapidly as governments, companies, and private businesses invest in EV infrastructure.
Do You Need Your Own Cable for Public EV Charging?
In most cases, public EV chargers come equipped with a cable that you can use to charge your vehicle. However, some charging stations, particularly those offering AC Level 1 or Level 2 charging, may not provide a cable. In these instances, you will need to bring your own charging cable.
When using DC fast chargers, the necessary cables are typically attached to the charger itself. However, itโs always wise to carry your own cable, especially if you frequently use AC charging stations or are traveling to less-equipped areas.
Can You Use Any Public EV Charger?
While it may seem like you can use any public EV charger, this is not always the case. EV chargers come in different types, and not all of them are compatible with every electric vehicle. There are primarily two types of chargers:
- Level 2 Chargers: These are the most common type of chargers found in public locations. They offer a decent charging speed and are compatible with most EVs that use the J1772 connector.
- DC Fast Chargers: These chargers provide much faster charging speeds and are ideal for long-distance travelers. However, they often require specific connectors (like the CHAdeMO or CCS plug) that may not be available on all vehicles.
Before using a public charger, make sure your vehicle is compatible with the connector type. You can check your carโs charging port or use apps like PlugShare to find out what chargers work for your specific EV.
Are Public Charging Stations Free to Use?
While some public EV charging stations are free to use, many require a fee. The cost can vary depending on several factors, including the location of the charging station, the charging network, and whether it offers AC or DC fast charging. Charging stations might charge per:
- Session (time-based)
- Energy usage (per kWh)
- Parking fee for the duration of charging
Some municipalities or businesses offer free charging as an incentive to attract customers, but these are usually short-term offers. It’s important to check the charging station’s pricing policy via apps or websites before using it.
Which is Cheaper? Charge EV at Home or Public?
Charging an EV at home is generally cheaper than using public charging stations. At home, you can take advantage of lower electricity rates, and if you have solar panels, you could even power your vehicle for free. On average, home charging costs around $0.10 to $0.20 per kWh, depending on your electricity provider.
On the other hand, public charging stations tend to be more expensive, especially fast chargers, which charge higher rates per kWh due to their convenience and speed. The cost can range from $0.25 to $0.80 per kWh at some stations. As a result, itโs often cheaper to charge at home if you have that option, but public charging is still an essential service for those who canโt charge at home.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Charge an EV at a Public Charging Station?
The time it takes to fully charge an EV depends on the type of charger being used, the battery capacity of your vehicle, and how much charge is left in your battery. Here are some estimates:
- Level 1 (AC): 4โ20 miles of range per hour; this is the slowest charging method and could take 12+ hours to fully charge a vehicle.
- Level 2 (AC): 10โ60 miles of range per hour; typically takes 4โ8 hours to fully charge an EV.
- DC Fast Charging: 100โ200 miles of range per hour; can charge an EV to 80% in about 30 minutes, but the last 20% may take longer.
So, if you’re looking for a quick charge, DC fast chargers are the way to go. However, for longer stays, Level 2 chargers are perfectly fine.
Are There Enough Public EV Charging Stations for All Electric Vehicle Owners?
As of now, the number of public EV charging stations is increasing, but it is still not at the level needed to support the rapid growth in EV adoption. While some regions, especially urban areas, have an adequate number of chargers, rural areas, and long-distance travel routes may face shortages. Governments and private companies are working to expand the charging infrastructure, but itโs an ongoing challenge.
For EV owners, itโs advisable to plan routes and charging stops in advance when embarking on long trips. As demand for electric vehicles rises, so too will the need for more public charging stations, making it increasingly easier to travel anywhere without worrying about charging.
