Sainsbury’s Smart Charge has partnered with the Department for Transport to help drivers experience the benefits of electric vehicles through a series of in store EV events taking place from 21 to 23 May. The events are supported by Nissan and Alphabet.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to see electric vehicles up close, book test drives, experience ultra rapid charging and learn more about how electric vehicles work, including details of the Government’s Electric Car Grant.
The events will take place at the following locations:
- London Colney Superstore, St Albans on 21 May
- Sainsbury’s Harrogate on 22 May
- Sainsbury’s Warren Heath on 23 May
Nissan will showcase the ARIYA and the all new MICRA, while Alphabet – a multi-make subsidiary of BMW Group – will present the BMW iX3 and MINI Countryman SE. Representatives from the Department for Transport and Sainsbury’s Smart Charge will also be on site to answer questions.
The partnership aims to improve public understanding of electric vehicles and demonstrate how easy and convenient charging on the go can be.
Research commissioned by the Department for Transport found that 71 per cent of people are unaware that there are now more public electric vehicle chargers than petrol stations, with around 120,000 public chargers available across the UK.
The research also found that more than a third of non-EV drivers said easier access to charging would make them more likely to switch to an electric vehicle. By offering on site demonstrations and practical advice, the events aim to show how simple charging can be.
Alongside environmental benefits, electric vehicles offer smooth performance, instant acceleration and quieter driving. Home charging can cost as little as 2p per mile, helping to reduce running costs. New electric vehicles are now available from £16,000, with used options from under £5,000. The Government has also committed £2 billion to further reduce the cost of electric cars to 2030, with eligible buyers able to receive discounts of up to £3,750 at the point of sale on qualifying vehicles.
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather said: “The EV revolution is here with over 2 million EVs now in the UK, but we want even more drivers to see the benefits of going electric, which is why we’re pleased to be partnering with Sainsbury’s to bring the electric experience to more communities.
“Today, making the switch to electric has never made more sense – drivers can save up to £1,400 a year on running costs, and 55 models are now eligible under our Electric Car Grant, which has already helped over 100,000 people save up to £3,750 off the price of a new electric car.”
Emma Williams, director of customer and commercial at Smart Charge, said: “Our mission is to make ultra-rapid EV charging easy to use, reliable, rewarding and accessible for everyone. Events such as these provide a fantastic opportunity for members of the public to experience both electric vehicles and charging away from home. Combining that with a familiar and trusted brand such as Sainsbury’s Smart Charge, can help instil confidence in those looking to make the switch to EV.”
Caroline Sandall-Mansergh, consultancy and channel development manager for Alphabet (GB), said: “The move to electric requires a shift in mindset and the ability to channel everyone’s energy to achieve a common goal. As major vehicle leasing and fleet management provider, we are delighted to actively support the Department for Transport’s campaign to help more drivers get up close and see the tangible benefits of switching to an electric vehicle. There’s plenty in store for the future.”
James Taylor, Nissan GB managing director, commented: “Giving people the chance to experience electric vehicles in their everyday lives is one of the most effective ways to build confidence in the transition. By bringing Nissan’s electric models to familiar locations like Sainsbury’s, we’re making it easier for drivers to see how practical, enjoyable and accessible going electric can be. With a strong UK footprint spanning design, engineering and manufacturing, Nissan is proud to support initiatives like this that help more customers take the next step towards electrifying Britain’s roads.”
The partnership follows the launch of the Department for Transport’s Get That Electric Feeling campaign in January. The campaign supports the Government’s ambition to accelerate the transition to cleaner energy and help drivers switch to electric vehicles ahead of the 2030 phase out of new petrol and diesel cars.
Find more information on making the switch to electric at gov.uk/cleanenergy.
