UK charge point operator Zest has opened a new electric vehicle charging hub in Leicester, adding ten ultra-fast bays as part of its plan to expand infrastructure in regional cities.
The site, built on the grounds of a former car wash on Uppingham Road, offers charging speeds of up to 300kW. Zest said the hub was designed to improve access in “underserved areas across the UK.” The price of 65 pence per kilowatt hour is positioned below the national average of around 76 pence/kWh for ultra-rapid charging, according to Zapmap.
“To meet the growing demand for electric vehicles, we need to build abundant infrastructure where people actually need it, close to where they live and work,” said Robin Heap, CEO of Zest. “This new urban hub in Leicester is a long-term solution, making charging more accessible today and future-proofing the city for years to come.”
Users can access the hub through Zest’s own app as well as third-party platforms including Octopus Electroverse, Plugsurfing, and Allstar for commercial drivers.
Leicester City Council welcomed the development. “The introduction of new EV chargers on Uppingham Road is a welcome and timely development for our community,” said Councillor Sanjay Modhwadia. “By making it easier for people to choose electric vehicles, we’re taking meaningful steps toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.”