The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is on the brink of a transformative leap forward. Be.EV, a pioneering EV charging solutions provider, has just secured a landmark £20 million deal to install over 200 ultra-rapid charging bays across 22 retail and leisure parks managed by Schroders Capital.
This ambitious project is set to significantly enhance the accessibility and convenience of EV charging at some of the UK’s most frequented shopping destinations, marking a major milestone in the country’s journey toward sustainable transportation.
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Ultra-Rapid Charging: Powering the Future of EV Mobility
One of the standout features of this deal is the deployment of cutting-edge Kempower chargers, each capable of delivering up to 300 kW of power.
This ultra-rapid charging technology allows EV drivers to add up to 325 miles of range in just 20 minutes — a charging speed that rivals the convenience of traditional refueling for petrol and diesel vehicles.
By installing these chargers at retail parks anchored by major brands such as Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Lidl, IKEA, McDonald’s, and Costa Coffee, Be.EV is ensuring that EV drivers can recharge their vehicles while enjoying shopping, dining, or leisure activities.
The chargers will be installed in hubs typically comprising six to twelve bays, designed to accommodate multiple vehicles simultaneously. This setup not only reduces wait times but also supports the growing number of EVs on UK roads, which is expected to surge in the coming years as government policies and consumer preferences increasingly favor electric mobility.
A Strategic Partnership with Schroders Capital
The £20 million investment is part of a strategic partnership between Be.EV and Schroders Capital, a leading real estate investment manager. Schroders Capital manages a diverse portfolio of retail and leisure properties across the UK, making it an ideal partner for this large-scale EV infrastructure rollout.
Be.EV will fully fund the installation and long-term maintenance of the charging infrastructure, relieving property owners of upfront costs and operational burdens.
The charging hubs will be operated under 20-year leases with index-linked rents, providing Schroders Capital and its clients with a stable, long-term income stream. This financial model aligns the interests of all parties involved, ensuring the sustainability and success of the project.
Legal agreements for the first three sites have already been exchanged, with further signings expected imminently, signaling a rapid rollout timeline.
Why Retail Locations Are Key to EV Charging Expansion
The choice to focus on retail and leisure parks is strategic. These locations are natural “destination charging” points where EV drivers typically spend 30 minutes to an hour or more — the perfect window for a fast charge.
A recent survey cited by Be.EV revealed that 57% of EV drivers spend money on retail or hospitality while charging their vehicles, a figure that is expected to rise as EV adoption grows.
This trend creates a win-win scenario: retailers benefit from increased foot traffic and sales, while EV drivers gain convenient access to fast charging without disrupting their daily routines. By integrating charging infrastructure into popular retail hubs, Be.EV is helping to normalize EV charging as part of everyday life, accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels.
Voices from the Industry: Leadership Perspectives
Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, described the deal as a “landmark” moment for the company. He emphasized that this partnership positions Be.EV as a key player in the UK’s national charging network, delivering tangible benefits to landlords, tenants, and consumers alike.
“We are excited to help the big brands who occupy the retail parks in Schroders’ portfolio benefit from the increased footfall EV charging brings,” Ghafoor said.
Matthew Baddeley, Lead Asset Manager at Schroders Capital, highlighted the alignment of this initiative with broader environmental and business goals.
“Improving the UK electric charging network is essential in supporting the UK’s energy transition goals, whilst it also aligns with our own net zero targets,” Baddeley noted. He praised Be.EV’s offering as “highly compelling” and expressed enthusiasm about welcoming the company to Schroders Capital’s retail warehouse portfolio.
The Bigger Picture: Supporting the UK’s Energy Transition
This £20 million investment by Be.EV is more than just a commercial venture — it’s a strategic contribution to the UK’s ambitious climate and energy goals. The UK government has set a target to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, making the expansion of reliable and fast public charging infrastructure critical to achieving this vision.
By focusing on ultra-rapid chargers at retail destinations, Be.EV is addressing one of the key barriers to EV adoption: range anxiety and charging convenience. The ability to quickly recharge while shopping or dining removes a significant pain point for potential EV buyers, encouraging more consumers to make the switch to electric.
Table: Key Details of Be.EV’s £20M Fast Charger Deal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | £20 million |
| Number of Charging Bays | 200+ ultra-rapid bays |
| Charger Power Output | Up to 300 kW |
| Charging Speed | Up to 325 miles range in 20 minutes |
| Number of Sites | 22 retail and leisure locations |
| Retail Anchors | Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Lidl, IKEA, McDonald’s, Costa Coffee |
| Lease Term | 20 years with index-linked rents |
| Funding | Fully funded by Be.EV |
| Maintenance | Long-term maintenance by Be.EV |
Conclusion: Charging Ahead Toward a Greener Future
Be.EV’s £20 million deal to install 200 ultra-rapid chargers at UK retail locations is a pivotal development in the country’s EV infrastructure landscape. By combining cutting-edge technology with strategic site selection and a sustainable financial model, this project promises to make EV charging faster, more convenient, and more integrated into everyday life.
As the UK accelerates its transition to electric mobility, partnerships like this one between Be.EV and Schroders Capital will play a crucial role in shaping a cleaner, greener future — one charge at a time.
