Sainsbury's launches new ultra-rapid EV charging business

Sainsbury's has launched a new ultra-rapid EV charging business called Smart Charge, making it the first and only EV charging business to be fully owned and managed end-to-end by a UK supermarketwhich.

Sainsbury’s 150kW Smart Charge bays will be located across its stores and will allow users to fully charge their vehicle in around 30 minutes.

Already available at more than 20 Sainsbury’s stores, Smart Charge offers accessible bays open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. New charging hubs will be added to the Smart Charge network throughout the UK regularly.

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement & EV Ventures, said: “As EV ownership continues to grow, it’s shocking to see that an incredible three quarters of EV drivers still suffer range anxiety and many have avoided journeys as a result.

“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 available at around 200 ultra-rapid charging bays at just over 20 Sainsbury’s locations. The charging technology and equipment is provided by Kempower.