InstaVolt welcomes further clarity on Project Rapid vision

InstaVolt has welcomed the Government’s latest announcement on Project Rapid – an initiative that will bring on rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging across the UK – as it puts the fight against pollution at the top of the agenda.

InstaVolt, the UK’s largest owner-operated network of rapid electric vehicle chargers, has welcomed the release of more details around the initiative, announced by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

The following detail has been added:

• A consultation on bringing forward the end of the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans to 2035;
• By 2023, the Government aims to have at least 6 high powered, open access chargepoints (150 – 350 kilowatt capable) at motorway service areas in England, with some larger sites having as many as 10-12;
• By 2030, the Government expects there to be around 2,500 high powered chargepoints across England’s motorways and major A roads, with this target rising to 6,000 by 2035.

Adrian Keen, CEO for InstaVolt said: “As well as being extremely damaging to the environment, air pollution now contributes to one in 19 deaths in the UK’s largest towns and cities. The only way to tackle climate change is to continue pushing for greener alternatives.

The Coronavirus pandemic has seen very few positive news stories in recent weeks, but the notable improvement to our air quality is one that has captured the imagination of many.

“Project Rapid is a great initiative that complements the fantastic investment in rapid charging infrastructure that companies like ours are deploying. There’s no doubt that extensive public charging infrastructure across all major routes will be key to this transition.

“This latest news certainly strengthens the case for adopting EVs and is a step in the right direction. The news will also no doubt prove to be a confidence boost for investors too, who will be integral to supporting the roll out of any rapid charge networks.”