BP Pulse and APCOA agree to build 100 EV hubs across Europe

Berlin and Bremen planned as first urban hubs

BP Pulse and APCOA Parking Group have signed a panEuropean frame agreement to open more than 100 EV fast charging hubs across the continent. BP Pulse plans to install charging points at APCOA car parks in the UK, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands and Poland over the next three years. The project will help the chargepoint operator expand its network in city centres.

The roll-out will form part of APCOA’s plan to transform its car parks into ‘urban hubs’ which will provide physical and digital infrastructure for mobility, logistics, e-charging and technology based services.

The two companies aim to work together to provide a convenient customer journey through digital integration of BP Pulse and the APCOA Connect app in the UK, and the APCOA Flow app in Europe.

Registered users will be able to use the apps to locate, access, book and pay for their charging and parking at the car park from their mobile, and the car park’s entry and exit barriers will open automatically as the vehicle approaches.

SWARCO launches Power and Go

SWARCO Smart Charging is to launch a nationwide ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging network called Power and Go, or PoGo.

SWARCO’s aim is to build a network of over 2,000 ultra-rapid charging stations over the next four years. PoGo charging locations will be strategically positioned to be convenient for drivers and with easy access to public amenities, coffee shops and food outlets.

Each site will have multiple charging options that will be regularly serviced and maintained by a team of EV-driving engineers.

EV drivers will be supported by a 24/7 in-house customer support team that can be contacted by phone, email, website, app and social media channels.

Justin Meyer, managing director of SWARCO Smart Charging, said: “With battery-electric cars accounting for one-third of all new registrations in December and the total number of pure EVs on UK roads now reaching over 600,000, accelerating the installation of suitable charging infrastructure is needed to support the current and future demands of EV drivers. That requires not only the most reliable technology, but also finding the best sites, and having a team with the drive, passion and know-how to deliver an exceptional experience, and support people on their electric journey.”

Two urban hubs in Berlin and Bremen in Germany are expected to open in the third quarter of 2023. These will be the first locations to offer ultrafast charging which can charge a minimum of six cars, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and will be operated by Aral Pulse, BP’s German brand.

To make the most of downtime whilst charging, some of the hubs will offer a

‘driver lounge’ including a vending offer of hot and cold drinks, seating areas with phone charging points and free Wi-Fi, and restrooms will also be available.

With the incoming ban on ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles across Europe in 2035, alongside measures to equip up to 30% of public parking spaces with charging facilities for electric cars, BP Pulse and APCOA’s hubs will offer one solution in well-lit city-centre parking where available land is often scarce.

Stefan von Dobschuetz, general manager Europe, BP Pulse said: “This agreement will help us to build our EV charging network across Europe by offering customers the fastest and most convenient EV hub charging experience. By working with APCOA, we’re bringing the future of parking, charging and services for urban life in one place.”

Barnet awards EV charger contract to VolkerSmart Technologies

VolkerSmart Technologies has been awarded a £1m installation contract for electric vehicle charging points along residential roads in Barnet, north London, on behalf of Trojan Energy.

The first phase of works involved the installation of charging points, along six residential roads in Barnet which are fitted flat and flush within the pavement. The team also fitted feeder cabinets, including concrete base plinths, and associated trenching and cabling works.

The remaining four phases involve the installation of on-street, EV charging points across a further 28 locations, new electrical feeder cabinets, and associated trenching and cabling works.

In addition, Trojan Energy has awarded VolkerSmart Technologies the electrical network connection contract to the in-house independent connections team. This provides a more efficient and costeffective solution, removing the need to wait for a third party to make the connections. Traffic management design work has also been awarded to VolkerHighways’ in-house traffic management division. The division may also be called upon if there are more complex traffic management requirements on site.

The EV chargers are a new design which sit flat and flush within the footway. This leaves footways entirely clear and fully accessible to other pavement users, when not in use. This is essential for wheelchair users, those pushing buggies or pedestrians with a visual impairment, as it significantly reduces collision hazards.

To support with the installation, VolkerSmart Technologies provided early contractor engagement with the client to develop a bespoke ‘jig’. This has created a more efficient and safer installation process.