Just 16 months after launching its Smart Charge network, Sainsbury’s has installed more than 650 ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging bays across over 75 store locations, positioning itself as one of the UK’s fastest-growing retail charge point operators. The £25 million investment underscores the supermarket’s commitment to supporting the country’s transition to zero-emission road transport.
Since its UK rollout began in January 2024, the Smart Charge network has enabled over 60 million miles of electric driving, which Sainsbury’s says equates to a reduction of 10.71 million kilograms of CO₂ compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. The charging bays operate at 150kW, supplied by Kempower, and typically allow EV drivers to replenish up to 80% of battery charge in under 30 minutes. All chargers are powered by 100% renewable electricity.
Each charging station features two connectors—primarily CCS, with many locations also offering CHAdeMo—and provides one of the lowest tap-and-go pricing options in the UK at 72p per kWh, without requiring subscriptions or mobile apps.
Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Chief Property and Procurement Officer and Managing Director of Smart Charge, commented: “Reaching 60 million fossil-free miles in just over a year shows what’s possible with investment and a relentless focus on our customers. We set out to remove the barriers to EV adoption by making charging fast, reliable and easy – and that’s exactly what Smart Charge delivers, at convenient locations where lots of EV drivers already shop.”
The initiative has also received praise from the UK government. Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said, “It’s amazing that Sainsbury’s has powered 60 million miles worth of zero-emission journeys in just over a year, thanks to its £25m investment to install hundreds of chargers at its stores – helping drivers charge easily and conveniently while doing their shopping.”