Sainsbury’s has officially launched Smart Charge, a dedicated EV charging business that provides convenient access to ultra-rapid charging points across its extensive network of stores.
Setting a significant industry precedent, Smart Charge is the first and only EV charging business fully owned and managed by a UK supermarket.
This strategic move not only underscores the company’s commitment to the EV industry but also introduces an innovative service catering to the needs of drivers.
Anthony Browne, Minister for Technology and Decarbonisation, emphasised the significance of the move for the UK charging landscape: “Businesses play a crucial role in the delivery of EV infrastructure, so it’s great to see Sainsbury’s embracing ultra-rapid technology which will benefit EV drivers.
“Together with the industry, we’ve supported the installation of over 52,600 chargepoints across the UK, an increase of 44% from last year.”
Addressing range anxiety
In a recent survey commissioned by Sainsbury’s, 80% of EV users acknowledged refraining from long journeys due to reluctance to use public EV charging stations.
Key frustrations expressed included malfunctioning chargers (40%), inadequate charging bays (36%), and slow service (33%).
In response to these concerns, Smart Charge is set to feature over 750 state-of-the-art ultra-rapid charging bays, strategically deployed across more than 100 stores by the end of 2024, positioning Sainsbury’s among the top five providers of ultra-rapid charging in the UK.
Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Director of Property, Procurement & EV Ventures, explained: “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.
“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.”
Revolutionising EV charging speeds
EV charging in the UK is classified by the level of power the chargers can provide in kilowatts (kW), including:
- Slow – 3-6kW
- Fast – 7-22kW
- Rapid – 25-99kW
- Ultra-Rapid – 100kW+
Ultra-rapid charging, currently the fastest EV charging type available, is yet to be experienced by 32% of surveyed EV drivers.
Smart Charge’s 150kW charging bays aim to alleviate this, allowing users to fully charge their vehicles in just 30 minutes and enabling a travel range of up to 200 miles. For vehicles capable of higher charging speeds, some chargers can operate at up to 300kW.
Smart Charge network expansion
Already operational in more than 20 Sainsbury’s locations, Smart Charge provides accessible and spacious bays that are open 24/7 and compatible with fully electric vehicles.
The launch of Smart Charge aligns with Sainsbury’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero across its value chain by 2050.
By facilitating the uptake of electric vehicles, Smart Charge contributes to the broader objective of transitioning the UK toward a low-carbon economy.
