First InstaVolt EV rapid charger goes live at McDonald’s as national roll-out gets underway

InstaVolt has opened the first of many rapid EV charging points at McDonald’s in Port Talbot, as part of an initiative to deliver a rapid charging network at the restaurant giant’s Drive Thru restaurants across the UK.

As McDonald’s looks to play its part in a greener economic recovery, its ambition is to create a new nationwide charging network to support increasing demand for EVs. Installation works have also started at a number of other sites across the country, with more chargers expected to be rolled out across McDonald’s estate in 2021.

The partnership with InstaVolt, the largest owner-operated network of rapid EV chargers in the UK, marks a huge stride forward for EV charging infrastructure. It will include the introduction of charging points at both new and existing Drive Thru restaurants within the McDonald’s estate where they can be accommodated.

McDonald’s going live in Port Talbot’s Water Street restaurant comes four weeks after the Government announced that the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned in the UK from 2030. More drivers than ever are also considering driving an EVs due to the dramatic improvement in air quality witnessed during lockdowns throughout 2020.

Beth Hart, Vice President of Supply Chain & Brand Trust, said: “We’re delighted to take this first step on an incredibly important journey for McDonald’s as we continue to look at ways to use renewables to address carbon emissions. Our partnership with InstaVolt is a real step forward for those already driving electric vehicles, as well as people considering making the switch and takes advantage of our scale with over 1,300 restaurants.  Our ambition means that UK drivers should never be far from a charging point outside our restaurants.

“This boost to the EV charging infrastructure builds on our heritage when it comes to renewables. For the last 10 years we have run our delivery fleet on biodiesel produced from our fry oil, and our restaurants are powered by 100% renewable energy. Our ultimate ambition is to have more EV charging points on our premises than any other company in the UK and Ireland.”

Adrian Keen, InstaVolt’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “It’s a landmark moment for us and EV drivers nationwide as this groundbreaking partnership with McDonald’s becomes a reality for drivers across the UK. More locations will come on stream in the New Year as the roll out gathers pace.”

He added: “Port Talbot is of particular importance as it increases our presence in the principality of Wales as we widen our network across the country. As the first rapid chargers in Port Talbot, this will be welcome news for the local community and the many drivers who pass on the M4 every day.”

InstaVolt’s new rapid charging points are capable of charging at 125kW, among the fastest in the UK and cutting charging times for motorists, making EVs a more realistic prospect for drivers than ever before. The partnership will increase accessibility of rapid charging for drivers across the UK by providing a network of convenient and recognisable locations beyond service stations, residential streets and workplaces. InstaVolt has enjoyed a highly successful year. The company has just been named “Best Universal Charging Provider” in the prestigious 2021 Driving Electric Awards, the fourth time in the past nine months that it has been recognised with a national award for reliability and ease of use.

To find your nearest InstaVolt charger visit: https://instavolt.co.uk/find-electric-vehicle-charge-point-map/