British petrol station operator EG Group has announced its collaboration with Tesla to acquire ultra-fast charging units, marking a strategic move to bolster its electric vehicle (EV) charging network across Europe. EG Group, owned by the Issa brothers, prominent figures behind UK supermarket Asda, aims to elevate its existing network of 600 chargers to an ambitious 20,000 chargers at its own sites in the foreseeable future.
The expansion aligns with the imperative of accelerating electric vehicle adoption, a pivotal component of the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Despite progress, the automotive industry advocates for a more rapid expansion of the public charging infrastructure to facilitate a seamless transition for drivers opting for electric vehicles.
As of October 1, government figures indicate that the UK hosts just over 49,000 public electric vehicle charging devices. The acquisition of Tesla’s “open network” chargers by EG Group is expected to offer universal accessibility, irrespective of the vehicle brand.
Rebecca Tinucci, Tesla’s Senior Director of Charging Infrastructure, emphasized the significance of swiftly installing reliable and user-friendly EV charging infrastructure, considering it a crucial stride towards a sustainable future. Furthermore, EG Group’s purchase of Tesla’s fast-charging hardware opens up opportunities for other industry leaders to acquire similar technology.
The partnership underscores the collaboration between established players in the fuel industry and innovative electric vehicle solutions, aiming to address the growing demand for efficient and widespread charging infrastructure in Europe.