McDonald’s, in partnership with Izivia, a subsidiary of EDF, plans to install 2,000 high-power charge points across 700 of its branches in France by 2025. Izivia will serve as the charge point operator for the network, branded as ‘Izivia Fast,’ and anticipates a 25% boost in the availability of ultra-rapid chargers for the public in France.
The high-power charging (HPC) stations are designed to deliver 150 kW to 200 kW and will be strategically placed under the ‘Izivia Fast’ label. According to Izivia, these chargers can replenish up to 80% of an electric vehicle’s range in just 20 minutes, aligning with the time it takes to enjoy a meal at the fast-food chain.
With McDonald’s operating 1,539 outlets in France, this initiative will equip nearly every second restaurant with one or two ultra-rapid chargers. RĆ©mi Rocca, Senior Director of Impact for McDonaldās France, expressed enthusiasm for the nationwide network of electric charging points.
Izivia, in a statement, acknowledged the support of McDonaldās France and CrĆ©dit Mutuel Impact for the initiative. While the level of investment remains undisclosed, Izivia highlighted that the Izivia Fast network is co-financed by Izivia and the SiloĆ© Infrastructures Fund managed by CrĆ©dit Mutuel Impact through a special purpose vehicle. The contract, inclusive of services, is set to span twelve years.
Christelle Vives, Managing Director of Izivia, emphasized the company’s ambition to become a leader in fast-charging, ensuring nationwide coverage for all electric vehicle users beyond major cities.
EDF established Izivia in 1998, originally named Sodetrel, before rebranding as Izivia in 2018. The company operates as a charging network operator and provider of charging infrastructure, targeting local authorities and businesses.
Benoit Herrmann, Head of CrĆ©dit Mutuel Impact, commented on the significance of the project, stating that the SiloĆ© Infrastructures fund, created in 2020, aims to finance high-impact green infrastructure. McDonald’s, known for its global efforts in EV charging, also collaborates with Instavolt in the UK and has ongoing initiatives with Mer in Austria and Enel X in Italy, demonstrating its commitment to expanding EV charging infrastructure.
