IONITY today announces that it has opened six new high-power chargers at one of Europe’s largest shopping and leisure destinations, Gateshead’s Metrocentre. This is IONITY’s first retail centre opening in the UK and another milestone in expanding ultra-fast charging infrastructure powered by green energy only.
The charging hub is at a key location, just off the A1 and will serve EV drivers in the North-East of England as well as long-distance travellers. With IONITY ultra-fast chargers it is possible to recharge the battery within 15-45 minutes depending on the vehicle while taking in the various amenities at the UK’s second-largest shopping centre. These amenities include shopping with high-street brands, an abundance of great restaurants, leisure centres and cinemas.
Located just a short walk from the main centre, in the Metro Retail Park, it is expected that the new ultra-rapid chargers will generate additional footfall and sales at Metrocentre from a new customer base of EV drivers as well as help to future proof the facilities as EV ownership continues to rise.
Charging with IONITY also means 100% green energy from source to socket, which makes EV travel emission-free and truly carbon neutral, providing a positive contribution to the overall goal of decarbonising the transport sector across the UK and Europe.
IONITY’s country manager of UK and Ireland, Andreas Atkins commented: “We take great pride in opening a new charging hub at one of the largest shopping centres in the UK, making it our first charging site at a retail park. Wherever charging points are located, there is a significant impact on a site’s overall trade levels due to an influx of a new customer base of EV drivers, and we are confident this will be the case at Metrocentre, especially with the various amenities they have on offer.
“IONITY has plans to continue expansion across the UK and Europe, with the aim to have a charging site every 60 to 80 miles on average across Europe’s highway network.”
Ben Cox of Sovereign Centros, senior asset manager for Metrocentre, said: “Creating a sustainable future is important to the centre and our partnership with IONITY further reinforces our commitment to sustainability as we adapt to the evolving needs of our visitors. As more people make the switch to EV ownership, decisions on where to shop and socialise will be influenced by charging infrastructure. These new chargers will support our commitment and provide EV charging for both local visitors and those visiting from further afield.
“The addition of these ultra-rapid chargers will add to the centre’s existing provision, making it one of the biggest EV charging infrastructures in a UK shopping centre.”
IONITY’s mission is to build a comprehensive charging infrastructure throughout the UK and Europe, to enable a fast and seamless charging experience for customers.
