EV charging launches at Metrocentre

Metrocentre in Gateshead has launched 56 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across three car parks, following a half a million pound investment from EV charging operator Zest.

The deal is the second between Zest and Sovereign Centros, after 64 charging slots were launched at Merry Hill last year.

The majority of the stations will house fast chargers, which are designed to fill up a battery in a couple of hours, in line with the average time spent at the scheme. Rapid chargers will also be available for visitors in a hurry.

According to research from business consultancy CACI, over two-thirds of those who intend to purchase electric vehicles said they would visit retailers and businesses more frequently if provided with the right charging facilities.

Robin Heap, chief executive officer of Zest, said: “In the future we’ll just charge where we park, as part of our normal routine. Retail and leisure destinations that provide the right EV facilities first, as new habits are being formed, are those that will thrive in the migration to EV.”

Zest provides electric vehicle charging services retailers and local authorities. Its projects are backed by the Government’s Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund.