Tesco opens 500th free-for-customers EV top up charging location

The network of free electric vehicle charge points at Tesco stores has opened its 500th charging location at a Tesco Extra in Inverness.

The network launched in 2019 as a collaboration between by Tesco, Pod Point and Volkswagen, and is available to all electric vehicle drivers. The 7kW and 22kW chargers are free for Tesco customers, and 50kW rapid chargers are available at a competitive rate, says Tesco.

The network, adds Tesco, only uses renewable energy and use has increased from 500,000 monthly charges in April 2021 to more than two million by the end of February.

Jason Tarry, CEO at Tesco UK and ROI, said, “We’re thrilled to see the rollout of free EV charging at our retail stores gather pace. The network is helping customers charge while they shop.”

Designed to offer Tesco customers a “secure, reliable and accessible way to top up their electric cars”, the network of more than 1,000 chargers at 500 Tesco Supermarkets in the UK also now includes 100 rapid chargers. The network’s expansion, adds Tarry, specifically targets areas without rapid charging access.

Sarah Cox, head of marketing at Volkswagen UK, said, “At Volkswagen, we want to make carbon neutral mobility accessible to everyone. It’s hugely encouraging that drivers from over 220 models from almost 40 different brands have already benefited from free, green top ups while shopping at Tesco.”

This latest milestone means the network is on track to meet its original target of launching charging points at 600 Tesco stores across the UK.

Erik Fairbairn, Pod Point founder and CEO, added, “The partnership is continuing to make a significant and very visible contribution to the UK’s charging infrastructure, giving drivers the confidence to transition to electric. Pod Point's mission is to put an EV charge point everywhere you park and we’re delighted to see so many more shoppers up and down the country reap the benefits as we continue the rollout.”