EG Group has announced a landmark partnership with Tesla. This collaboration is set to expand EG’s network from a modest 600 chargers to an ambitious target of over 20,000. With a planned rollout across the UK and Europe, the deal not only signifies Tesla’s first such agreement with a third-party operator in Europe but also marks a significant step towards achieving net-zero emissions. Tesla’s ultra-fast charging units, renowned for their speed and reliability, will be accessible to all EV drivers, supporting the increasing demand for sustainable transport options.
- “evpoint” chargers will operate on an open network, promoting universal access and supporting Plug and Charge protocol.
- Strategic collaboration aligns with the growing demand for extensive EV charging infrastructure amid surging popularity.
- Tesla’s move to make fast-charging hardware available to third parties fosters industry collaboration, driving sustainability and innovation.
Electrifying Europe’s roads
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to surge in popularity, the demand for more extensive and quicker charging networks grows. The strategic move by EG Group to partner with Tesla addresses this need head-on. It’s a substantial leap from their current fleet of chargers and a clear commitment to supporting the proliferation of EVs across Europe.
Rebecca Tinucci, Tesla’s Senior Director of Charging Infrastructure, underscored the importance of the venture. She described the rapid deployment of such infrastructure as a “right step towards a sustainable future,” highlighting Tesla’s commitment to facilitating this transition.
The collaboration is pioneering in its inclusivity. The Tesla chargers, to be branded as “evpoint” under EG Group’s wing, will operate on an open network. This means that regardless of the vehicle’s make, drivers will have access to the state-of-the-art charging technology. The chargers will also support the Plug and Charge protocol, which automates and simplifies the payment process, enhancing the user experience.
Accessibility is a critical factor in the EV market, and this open network approach may set a precedent for future infrastructure developments. It’s a move that is in line with the UK’s ambition to increase the number of public EV charging devices, which stood at just over 49,000 as of October 1.
Strategic expansion for a greener tomorrow
Zuber Issa CBE, Founder and co-CEO of EG Group, expressed his enthusiasm about the deal. He referred to the acquisition of Tesla’s advanced charging units as a “milestone” for the evpoint brand. Issa’s vision is clear: to expedite the delivery of essential charging infrastructure that will power the transition to Net Zero. EG Group Limited is a British retailer headquartered in Blackburn, United Kingdom, which operates filling stations, convenience stores and fast-food restaurants in Europe, the United States and Australia.
Imraan Patel, Chief Strategy & Business Officer of EG Group, elaborated on the company’s comprehensive strategy. It includes not only EV charging but also the support for alternative vehicular fuel and broader carbon reduction initiatives. Patel’s remarks underscore the company’s broader commitment to a lower carbon future, an aim that resonates with global sustainability goals.
The expansion plan is as ambitious as it is necessary. More than 600 chargers across 189 sites have already been deployed by EG Group, and the company has prepared a pipeline with the ambition to roll out more than 20,000 chargers. These will be distributed across approximately 3,600 of their own sites, with further opportunities at third-party locations also being pursued.
This aggressive expansion aligns with the market’s trajectory. The number of EVs on the road is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years, and infrastructure will be a pivotal factor in supporting this growth. EG Group’s partnership with Tesla is a significant stride in ensuring that the charging network can keep pace with the adoption of EVs.
Impact on the EV charging ecosystem
By making Tesla’s fast-charging hardware available to other sector leaders, Tesla is fostering broader collaboration and competition within the EV charging infrastructure sector. This strategy is likely to accelerate the shift to sustainable transport, as it promotes innovation and drives down costs through competition. Tesla’s proactive approach in this partnership could be a game-changer for the industry.
The move also holds potential for Tesla’s own business model. By selling their charging units to third parties, they are expanding the reach of their technology beyond their vehicle customer base. This could be a savvy business move, leveraging their reputation for innovation and reliability in the charging sector to tap into a new revenue stream.
