- Be.EV is to install over 200 ultra-rapid chargers will help close this gap, supporting both retail growth and the UK’s net-zero goals.
- The UK’s public EV charging network expanded by 37% in 2024, reaching 73,334 chargers by early 2025.
- As more drivers switch to electric, the demand for ultra-rapid charging is increasing, highlighting the need for faster infrastructure.
Be.EV and Schroders Capital to install over 200 ultra-rapid EV charging bays across the UK
Schroders Capital has partnered with Be.EV to make vital enhancements to the UK’s charging infrastructure. Be.EV will invest £20 million to install over 200 ultra-rapid EV charging bays across 22 retail and leisure properties managed by Schroders Capital.
These charging bays will utilise Kempower technology, delivering up to 300kW and providing up to 325 miles of range in just 20 minutes. Installations will occur at prominent retail destinations, including Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Lidl, Costa Coffee, KFC, McDonald’s, Nando’s, Pizza Express, Starbucks, Marks & Spencer, and IKEA.
Be.EV, majority-owned by Octopus Energy Generation’s £1.5 billion Sky Fund, is a leading EV charging network in the UK. The Sky Fund has pledged £110 million to support Be.EV’s expansion, solidifying its position as a stable charge point operator.
Each charging hub will feature six to twelve bays and with 20-year leasing agreements with index-linked market rents. This will ensure long-term stability and predictable income for Schroders Capital clients.
This initiative aligns with the UK’s broader EV infrastructure growth. In 2024, the public EV charging network expanded by 37%, reaching 73,334 chargers by January 2025. However, only 20% of these are rapid chargers, highlighting the need for more high-speed charging options.
Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, commented:
“Like the thousands of drivers who use our network each day, Be.EV is going places.
This is a landmark deal for Be.EV and we are excited to help the big brands who occupy the retail parks in Schroders portfolio benefit from the increased footfall benefits EV charging brings. I would like to congratulate all the team at Be.EV for their hard work in securing this important deal.”
Legal agreements have been signed for the first three locations, with more to follow soon.
