Sustrans, the UK-based walking, wheeling and cycling charity, and the custodian of the National Cycle Network, have partnered with Bosch eBike Systems, one of the leading manufacturers of electric bike drive systems. This is to introduce electric bike (ebike) charging stations on National Cycle Network routes across the UK.
The pandemic triggered a rise in the popularity of ebikes in the UK and sales are expected to continue in the coming years. As a result, these charging stations will give electric bike riders the confidence to take longer trips across the British countryside.
The charging stations, known as PowerStations, are currently being installed in key locations across the National Cycle Network. The stations are free to use and available to all ebike riders.
The first phase of the installation has brought six charging stations to Sherwood Forest on National Route 6, Bristol (the exact location to be confirmed soon) and Scotland along the Caledonia Way with four PowerStations. There are also plans to introduce PowerStations to many more sites across the UK.
Xavier Brice, Sustrans CEO, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Bosch eBikes. By installing charging stations across the National Cycle Network, we are delivering our shared vision for a UK-wide network of traffic-free paths, connecting cities, towns and countryside, loved by the communities they serve.
“This infrastructure for ebike charging will provide new and existing users with a safe and accessible way to use the National Cycle Network, free from charging anxiety.”
This new charging infrastructure will help to make the UK’s routes and countryside more accessible to people who rely on ebikes to get around. This is great news for ebikes users and the PowerStations will enable them to attempt longer rides and explore new places. Hopefully, it will encourage people to swap their cars for ebikes whether it’s for commuting or leisure activities.
Chris Astle, UK Marketing Manager at Bosch eBike Systems, said: “Working with Sustrans to continue to roll out ebike charging across the UK was a natural decision for us. We’re delighted to have the opportunity to develop the National Cycle Network and make these amazing routes accessible to everyone.
“I can’t wait to see more eBike riders and their families get active and explore the British countryside in new ways with support from these charging stations.”
