BRITAIN'S BIGGEST ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING STATION IS UNVEILED
Britain's largest and 'most advanced' electric vehicle (EV) charging station has officially opened its doors in Hampshire, setting a new standard for ultra-rapid charging stations across the UK.
The InstaVolt Superhub, located near the A34 and junction 9 of the M3, boasts 44 charging points which promise to have you back up to full capacity in just 20 minutes.
Despite concerns over dwindling demand for eco-friendly vehicles, the massive new facility aims to provide 'industry-leading' reliability, according to InstaVolt's CEO Delvin Lane.
The Superhub features 'ultra-rapid' chargers capable of delivering power at speeds up to 160kW, making it one of the fastest charging stations in the country.
In fact, a car like the Kia EV6 or Polestar 3 can go from 10 percent to 80 percent battery capacity in just 20 minutes.
The chargers cost users 85p per kilowatt - compared to between 10p and 15p that it costs to charge at home.
With off-peak rates dropping to a more affordable 54p per kWh from 9pm to 7am.
The station will also feature a solar farm and cutting-edge battery storage system, with 870 solar panels harnessing renewable energy to power the chargers.
A 4MWh battery storage unit will ensure maximum efficiency, while a blend of solar power, battery storage, and grid power will keep the chargers running at optimal capacity.
'This isn't just a charging hub – it's a flagship site,' said Delvin Lane, 'we are redefining what EV drivers can expect when they charge, seamless, ultra-rapid, and future-proofed charging that makes the switch to electric easier, faster, and more accessible than ever before.'
Located on a prime stretch of motorway and open 24/7, the site is designed with long-distance drivers, commuters, and local EV owners in mind.
The site also includes a Starbucks café, a children's play park, dog-walking area, and 24/7 toilet facilities.
EVs sales have slumped in Britain, with the public struggling to fall in love with the technology.
A shortage of public chargers fuels 'range anxiety' among motorists worried about where they can top up their batteries, while high prices have also put off would-be buyers.
Despite these fears, a new study claims that EVs are even more reliable than traditional cars and vans with petrol and diesel engines.
Researchers from the University of Birmingham and the London School of Economics (LSE), analysed the 'health' of nearly 300 million vehicles on UK roads.
Their analysis found that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) not only had a lower likelihood of failure, but also a comparable lifespan to traditional cars and vans.
According to the team, this marks a 'pivotal moment in the drive towards sustainable transportation'.
Co-author Dr Viet Nguyen-Tien, from the LSE, said: 'Our findings provide critical insights into the lifespan and environmental impact of electric vehicles.
'No longer just a niche option, BEVs are a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles - a significant step towards achieving a net-zero carbon future.'
Read more 2025-03-25T19:24:28Z
