What's the news?
Corley Services on the M6 motorway is not a particularly glamourous location, but it was chosen to mark the launch of the UK Rapid Charge Network - or UKRCN. Part funded by the EU under the Trans European Transport Network (TEN-T), the project will see over 70 charging stations in a network that links five seaports and five international airports. Four vehicle manufacturers are supporting the scheme: Renault, Nissan, BMW and Volkswagen.
Where will it run?
The network runs on a two priority road axis linking Stranraer, Liverpool, Holyhead, Birmingham, Felixstowe, Leeds and Kingston upon Hull. It will also connect with the fast charge network in Dublin and Belfast in Ireland. Around 680 miles of motorway and major trunk roads will be covered.
How much will it cost?
Overall investment in the UKRCN is around £5,863,352, half of which comes from the EU. Newcastle University is leading a research programme, funded from the manufacturers' contribution, to confirm the benefits of an interoperable rapid charging network. Information gathered, including customer behaviour and changes in mobility patterns, will help plan the roll-out of future charging infrastructure across Europe.
When will it be ready?
All 74 rapid charging points will be in place across the UK and Ireland by December 2014. So far ten rapid chargers have been installed with 28 more sites to be commissioned soon.
John Lambert - 11 Sep 2014