Be.EV, one of the UK’s fastest-growing public electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, has begun construction on Manchester’s first large-scale Charging Oasis. The site, located on the corner of Reliance Street and Oldham Road (Manchester, M40), is the only project of its kind to repurpose a former petrol station into a
EVC, the experts in fully-funded destination charging solutions for electric vehicles (EVs) announces its rebrand to Roam. The change reflects Roam’s broader ambitions for 2025, including European expansion and rolling out the next stage of its £165m commitment, announced last year, to install 100,000 fast and rapid EV chargers across
Algeco UK has completed one of its most distinctive buildings ever for a UK client, having put the finishing touches to a two-floor GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt® with retail and coffee outlet in a structure with four curved sides in Stevenage. The building has been completed in just 11 weeks by
Osprey Charging, the UK’s leading and fastest-growing EV rapid-charging network, has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its 100th rapid charging station in Wales. The new hub at Capital Shopping Park in Cardiff features 10 charging bays equipped with state-of-the-art charge points compatible with every electric vehicle (EV)
EV infrastructure provider installs third site as part of four retail locations across Scotland, which will deliver a megawatt of power between them. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure provider, FOR EV, has launched a new site at Tesco Express on Great Northern Road, Aberdeen. The new 200kW charging hub, which is
Osprey Charging, the UK’s leading and fastest-growing EV rapid-charging network, has released research highlighting the significant strides being made by commercial landlords in the East of England[1] and across the UK toward embracing public electric vehicle (EV) charging. The survey, which included responses from 500 commercial landlords aged 18 and
Rolec and Sinexcel partnered in 2022, to deliver high-quality, scalable, and reliable DC charging products, dedicated to operational excellence, accessibility, and innovation. The partnership has set the standard in providing economical ultra-rapid charging solutions. Since partnering over two years ago, Rolec and Sinexcel have achieved remarkable success with the installation
Bicester Motion, the 444-acre future mobility estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire and Skyports Infrastructure, the leader in vertiport infrastructure for the advanced air mobility (AAM) industry, have been given the green light to build the UK’s first vertiport testbed for the electric air taxi industry. The application for the new vertiport
Leading infrastructure supplier, FOR EV, has officially launched a major EV charging hub in Edinburgh. Located in Seafield Retail and Trade Park, just a five-minute drive from the popular Leith neighbourhood, the new hub provides a prime charging destination for EV drivers and shoppers travelling to and from the north
Siemens Smart Infrastructure has unveiled a new variant of its SICHARGE D electric vehicle (EV) fast charger, boasting a maximum output of 400 kW, tailored specifically for IEC markets. The SICHARGE D is designed to be future-proof, meeting the relevant standards, protocols, and regulations while remaining adaptable to both current
Be.EV, one of the UK’s fastest-growing public electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, has begun construction on Manchester’s first large-scale Charging Oasis. The site, located on the corner of Reliance Street and Oldham Road (Manchester, M40), is the only project of its kind to repurpose a former petrol station into a modern EV charging hub in the UK. The plot of land was a derelict petrol station for over 15 years, and is now being regenerated as the forecourt of the future – equipped with 12 ultra-rapid charging bays capable of charging an EV to 80% in just 20 minutes. The charge points are accompanied by four labelled waiting bays, giving EV owners clear spaces to queue if the Hub becomes busy. These are ready to be converted into full charging bays, when demand requires. The Charging Oasis will also be home to a new store by Caffè Nero, the premium European independent coffee house, who has signed a deal with Be.EV to be the exclusive retail partner on-site. The Nero Express store will serve as the latest drive-to site in Caffè Nero’s 1,100 store estate, and comes as part of the brand’s wider strategy to provide high-quality, barista-made coffee to commuters and local communities alike. Both brands are bringing a commitment to providing a welcoming space for EV drivers, with the store providing a warm and welcoming environment for drivers to recharge while their vehicles power up or grab a quick coffee to go whilst passing through. The partnership brings an additional layer of community focus to the Charging Oasis, with the project being a key part of the ongoing regeneration of the Failsworth area. Manchester City Council has already committed over £550 million to help regenerate the Failsworth area, and the site will serve as a focal point for attracting further investment to the region. Positioned on a high-traffic route between Manchester and Oldham, over 26,000 commuters pass by the site daily. With more than 1,242 registered EVs in the area, and over 150,000 EVs set to be on Manchester’s roads by 2038, there’s a clear demand for future-proof, accessible charging infrastructure. All bays will be accessible, including one fully accessible bay and one specially designed for vans, with each charger featuring a water-repellant canopy to keep drivers dry. The site also features free Wi-Fi for all users as well as CCTV to ensure members of the community are safe. The Charging Oasis marks Be.EV’s first project of this scale, and is set to serve as a model for similar Be.EV locations across the UK, with plans for more to come. Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, said: “We’re excited to break ground on our flagship Charging Oasis – this Manchester site will be the jewel in Be.EV’s crown, and it’s an incredible moment for the business. “We’ve designed the site with EV drivers in mind – we know that they want amenities on-site, either to take an extended break from driving, or simply to pop in and grab a takeaway coffee. “Not only will the Charging Oasis provide passers-by with a calm, convenient place for them to charge their EV or get a drink, but it will also serve as a hub for the local community to enjoy a coffee and a snack. “Having Caffè Nero on board as our retail partner is a real testament to the project. The partnership elevates the site from somewhere for drivers to quickly charge their car, to a destination for them to grab a coffee and recharge their own batteries too. “Their focus on sustainability and community aligns perfectly with our mission, and together, we’re creating a space where drivers can recharge while supporting a greener future.” Will Stratton Morris, CEO of Caffè Nero said: “With every Caffe Nero store, we aim for it to be a hub in the community where people can come together, feel welcomed and enjoy premium hand crafted coffee. “The store we are opening at the Manchester Oasis will be just that, and it matches perfectly the ambitions Be.EV have for the site. “We are delighted to partner with them on this, they are creating a truly great project which will not only benefit those with electric cars but will also strengthen the local community. ” The construction of the Charging Oasis is expected to be completed by spring 2025, with the site opening shortly thereafter. Partners of the site include Architect That (who designed the site), AY (who undertook planning and discharging of conditions), Vital (who supplied chargers), Kempower (who manufactured chargers), MES (M Group) (who constructed the site), Formula Space (who consulted on and manufactured signage) and Matrix (who built infrastructure to bring power to the site). Be.EV also worked with Manchester City Council, which has been very supportive and helped to get the project to this point. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
EVC, the experts in fully-funded destination charging solutions for electric vehicles (EVs) announces its rebrand to Roam. The change reflects Roam’s broader ambitions for 2025, including European expansion and rolling out the next stage of its £165m commitment, announced last year, to install 100,000 fast and rapid EV chargers across hospitality, workplaces, multi-dwelling residentials, leisure and retail sectors. Since Roam started in 2020, the company has made significant steps in providing a nationwide network of accessible and reliable charging solutions. Working with over 14 national hotel groups including Hilton Hotels and Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, as well as sporting organisations including The Professional Golfers Association and workspace clients like BizSpace Ltd. Roam has also established a strong presence in the residential sector, specialising in EV chargers for multi-dwelling apartment buildings. Roam is set to accelerate its expansion in this space in both the UK and Europe in 2025, with current clients including Galliard Homes, Ballymore and Battersea Power Station, which was once the UK’s third largest energy generating site and is now home to close to 100 Roam charging bays for its residents. The new Roam brand embodies the company’s vision of enabling drivers to “roam” freely, instilling confidence that drivers can leave behind concerns around “range anxiety” and have access to a reliable EV charging network. “Our mission has always been to provide convenient and hassle-free EV charging at destinations where drivers need them most, and this remains at the heart of everything we do at Roam,” says Roam’s CEO, James Randall. “Our newly energised identity reflects our growth, our values, and our dedication to empowering cleaner, greener communities and accelerating access to an electric future.” “As Roam prepares to expand its reach and bring charging solutions to an even greater number of destinations, our new identity signals our commitment to enable drivers to have an effortless charging experience that fits around their day to day, without the need for detours.” Roam’s national rebrand across their EV charging network takes place from this week, with the first four locations confirmed as Forge Retail Park in Stourbridge, Tweedmill Shopping Outlet in Saint Asaph, Hilton Hotel in Leicester and Chartham Park Golf & Country Club in West Sussex. All remaining EV chargers will be rebranded throughout 2025. The official rebranding of Roam’s website and app takes place on Tuesday 26th November. Existing registered users will be able to continue to enjoy the benefits Roam offers via their existing accounts with no need to change or update their details. For more information and to find your nearest Roam charging point, visit www.Roamcharging.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Algeco UK has completed one of its most distinctive buildings ever for a UK client, having put the finishing touches to a two-floor GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt® with retail and coffee outlet in a structure with four curved sides in Stevenage. The building has been completed in just 11 weeks by Algeco UK on behalf of GRIDSERVE, which was looking for a building to sit alongside electric vehicle chargers at Knebworth Estate, Stevenage just off the A1 – which was identified as a critical location for volume electric car users. There is no shortage of available charging stations on the site, hosting 30 EV charging bays, including 24 High Power bays with up to 360kW of power – some of the fastest chargers publicly available today, capable of adding up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes. The ground floor of the building has 4,247 sq. ft. of space, and features a grocery retail outlet and coffee shop to keep drivers busy while their cars are charging. There’s enough space for 30 vehicles including two accessible spaces and two parent-and-child spaces. Level two of the building, with 4,236 sq. ft. of space, contains an EV experience area and airport-style lounge. Algeco UK is a leading provider of permanent modular buildings, temporary accommodation and storage containers delivering construction expertise to diverse sectors including retail, commercial, industrial, education, health, defence and justice, and many more. GRIDSERVE is best known for opening the UK’s first Electric Forecourt® in Braintree in 2020 and has since opened Electric Forecourts® in Norwich and London Gatwick Airport. The structure created for GRIDSERVE in Stevenage is based on Algeco’s IBEX modular unit and built at its Carnaby factory. However this is the first of its type for any client with all four sides being curved. Paul Beard, Senior Design Manager for Algeco UK, explained the curved sides of the building created new challenges as it tested the tolerance of the steel used, before finding a solution to ensure it was as strong as the rest of the structure. He said: “The curves to all four sides of the building pose many challenges with tolerances experienced while curving the hot-rolled frames at temperatures exceeding 500 degrees. The external cladding also has to be millimetre perfect to achieve the desired aesthetics.” Julian Foster, Chief Operating Officer at GRIDSERVE said: “Being able to deliver reliable charging quickly and efficiently helps us on our mission to give drivers the confidence to switch to EV. “However building an Electric Forecourt® is not just about infrastructure; it’s about paving the way for a sustainable future. This project demonstrates our commitment to innovation, net zero energy, and a greener world for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Osprey Charging, the UK’s leading and fastest-growing EV rapid-charging network, has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its 100th rapid charging station in Wales. The new hub at Capital Shopping Park in Cardiff features 10 charging bays equipped with state-of-the-art charge points compatible with every electric vehicle (EV) model on the market today. The Cardiff Shopping Park hub provides a variety of charging options for EV owners. With eight 300kW DC chargers, drivers can add up to 100 miles of range in just 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the vehicle and battery capacity. For those planning a longer visit, two slower AC chargers are also available. Osprey Charging now operates the largest number of rapid charge points in Wales, with over 100 in operation. In 2024 so far, the company has installed more than 40 new rapid and ultra-rapid charge points in the region, contributing to better air quality, lower noise pollution and supporting local decarbonisation efforts. This Capital Shopping Park hub reflects Osprey’s ongoing commitment to expanding Wales’ EV infrastructure. With simple payment options that include contactless bank cards, Apple/Google Pay, the Osprey App and RFID card payments, as well as payments through all major third-party payment methods including fleet cards, this new installation arrives in south Wales just weeks after Osprey opened a hub in the north of the country at Billy Jeans Café in Holywell. Two more rapid charging hubs are also set for launch before the end of the year, underscoring Osprey’s rapid expansion throughout Wales. “We are proud to be at the forefront of Wales’ EV transition,” said Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging. “With over 1,200 charging bays across the UK, including more than 100 charge points in Wales, the opening of our Capital Shopping Park hub in Cardiff is an important step in our mission to provide reliable and accessible rapid charging for all drivers wherever they live. This hub not only helps meet the immediate needs of those with EVs but also plays a crucial role in our broader commitment to building a future-proof network across the UK.” Osprey has a long-standing history of supporting the growth of EV infrastructure in Wales. In 2020, the company partnered with Cardiff Council to install 12 rapid charging stations in Cardiff city centre, marking a pivotal moment in their commitment to regional development. Osprey’s continued investment in the region will ensure that more areas have access to high-quality charging facilities as the country works towards the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles. All of Osprey’s charging stations, including those at Capital Shopping Park, are powered by 100% renewable energy. By funding the installation and continuing to oversee the operation and maintenance of the chargers, Osprey ensures charge point reliability for all EV drivers. As a multi-award-winning network, Osprey has been recognized as a Zap-Map ‘Driver Recommended Network’ for the fourth consecutive year, with its locations consistently rated highly for safety and accessibility by the independent inspection body ChargeSafe. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
EV infrastructure provider installs third site as part of four retail locations across Scotland, which will deliver a megawatt of power between them. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure provider, FOR EV, has launched a new site at Tesco Express on Great Northern Road, Aberdeen. The new 200kW charging hub, which is less than a 10-minute drive from the city centre, is equipped with three dual charging points and six connectors that can charge a typical EV from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. The completion marks the latest of four sites run by Cedarwood Asset Management Ltd, including recently launched charging hubs at Sainsbury’s Inverkip in Inverclyde and Toolstation Montrose. The next step of the expansion will be FOR EV’s delivery of a fourth site in Fraserburgh, securing a combined total of 22 connectors across the Cedarwood sites. Paul Jenkins, Director at Cedarwood Asset Management Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have completed another deal with FOR EV and are sure that the public and staff of the Tenants on this site will benefit significantly from this additional facility.” John Ross, Business Development Manager at FOR EV, said: “We have a strong and growing relationship with Cedarwood Asset Management. Delivering a third site enables us to provide user-friendly EV charging infrastructure to a wider range of drivers across Scotland. “It’s important for retail businesses and landowners to recognise the need for infrastructure as not only an essential provision for EV owners but also an opportunity to attract new customers.” FOR EV is Scotland’s leading charge point operator and is supported by funding from The Scottish National Investment Bank. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Osprey Charging, the UK’s leading and fastest-growing EV rapid-charging network, has released research highlighting the significant strides being made by commercial landlords in the East of England[1] and across the UK toward embracing public electric vehicle (EV) charging. The survey, which included responses from 500 commercial landlords aged 18 and over, emphasises a growing commitment to sustainability and future-proofing commercial spaces in the region. Polling 500 commercial landlords across the UK, Osprey found just under 1 in 5 (19%) commercial landlords surveyed currently offer public EV charging in 31-40% of their spaces. However, an impressive 94% of commercial landlords surveyed in the East of England said they plan to continue offering EV charging points over the next 1-2 years, demonstrating a strong regional commitment to supporting the transition to EVs. Osprey’s findings reflect that most UK commercial landlords surveyed agree on the commercial advantages of providing public EV charging at their sites. The data shows that nearly nine in ten UK commercial landlords surveyed feel that installing public EV charging at their sites is important for attracting new and retaining existing customers (86% and 87% respectively)[2]. Similarly, 85%2 of UK commercial landlords believe that EV charging is important for ensuring their site is an in-demand space in the future. Additionally, three-quarters (75%)[3] said that it leads to longer dwell times from visitors, and 72%3 think that it leads to increased total customer footfall. In terms of rental prospects, 84% of landlords surveyed believe that providing public EV charging increases the likelihood of renting their spaces to businesses. This notion is matched among landlords in the East of England, with 92% agreeing. The roll-out of public EV chargers is progressing rapidly, with the installation of charging stations at commercial spaces remaining a top priority for UK commercial landlords. Nearly three-quarters (72%) currently offer public EV charging at up to half of their spaces. Osprey’s award-winning network is at the forefront of this effort, with over 1,100 rapid and ultra-rapid chargers available in key locations across the UK. In the East of England region alone, Osprey boasts 168 high-powered rapid chargers across 45 sites, including 11 ultra-rapid charging hubs. Jake Goldby, Head of Acquisitions at Osprey Charging, said: “Installing public EV charging is becoming an essential requirement for UK commercial landlords who want to stay competitive and meet customer demands. From the financial benefits of higher customer footfall to greater future renting opportunities, this research has provided us with fascinating insights into why more and more are offering EV charging on their sites. The growing commitment in regions like the East of England is particularly encouraging, reflecting a strong regional drive toward sustainability. “Partnering with commercial landlords has been integral for Osprey in allowing us to increase the roll-out of our charging infrastructure, which now has over 1,100 public high-powered EV chargers in rural and urban locations across the UK. We’re delighted to see that this research shows that they remain committed to supporting the roll-out of public charging infrastructure across the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rolec and Sinexcel partnered in 2022, to deliver high-quality, scalable, and reliable DC charging products, dedicated to operational excellence, accessibility, and innovation. The partnership has set the standard in providing economical ultra-rapid charging solutions. Since partnering over two years ago, Rolec and Sinexcel have achieved remarkable success with the installation of UltraCharge 160 units for several high-profile clients, including Porsche, Rolls Royce, Edinburgh City Council, Collins Earthworks, and Yorkshire Ambulance Services. Building on the strength and success of their ongoing partnership, Rolec and Sinexcel are excited to launch the UltraCharge 30, the most compact and affordable 30kW DC rapid charger coming to the market. Purpose-built and designed to meet the evolving needs of businesses, councils, fleets, and destinations. Introducing the UltraCharge 30: a versatile, future-proof EV charging solution, whether wall or pedestal-mounted, the unit offers up to 30kW power output in a space-efficient design. Delivering up to 10-80% charge in under 1.5 hours. With 96% peak efficiency, it optimises energy use, speeding up charging times and maximising ROI. It’s beneficial for sites looking to integrate a robust and rapid EV infrastructure. The UltraCharge 30 features the same trusted controller used in the popular UltraCharge 160, ensuring both reliability and performance. Its competitive pricing makes it an accessible option, minimising upfront costs while providing ease of installation. It combines proven technology with modern advancements to deliver a powerful and cost-effective solution. Compliant with the PAS 1899 accessible charging standard, it’s an ideal solution for destinations where accessibility is essential for serving a diverse customer base. Caravan parks, holiday parks, theme parks, hotels, resorts, shopping centres, sports stadiums, and more should prioritise meeting accessibility regulations. Businesses can offer pay-to-charge solutions and benefit from generating additional revenue. Activation is simple via ISO 15118 plug & charge, mobile app, and RFID, or with the added convenience of an optional contactless payment terminal. Designed with the latest features, it supports dynamic power management, over-the-air updates, an 8” HD user interface touch screen with advertising capability, and is compatible with any OCPP 1.6 CPMS, which is upgradable to OCPP 2.0.1. The UltraCharge 30 features a CCS2 charging connector for fast and reliable compatibility with a wide range of electric vehicles. For seamless operation and data management, the unit supports both 4G and Ethernet connectivity methods, ensuring consistent communication and control. Businesses can benefit from bespoke branding and colour options, whether it’s adding a logo or creating a fully custom design. Businesses who want to provide public EV charging have the option to fully fund the purchase and installation of 30kW DC units through Rolec’s strategic partnership with funding provider, Wattif. This allows businesses to benefit from implementing the latest EV infrastructure without capital expenditure or investment risk. The unit is available for preorder now, with deliveries available from early November.Speaking on the product, Frankie Mellon, Rolec’s Managing Director, said:“I am thrilled to introduce the UltraCharge 30, a major step forward in delivering compact, cost-effective DC charging solutions. This unit is designed to supply rapid charging at an accessible price, with a focus on accessibility for all users. The UltraCharge 30 builds on the success of its big brother, the UltraCharge 160, offering the same tried-and-tested technology in a smaller, very affordable package. We’ve worked closely with Sinexcel to ensure this product is equipped to meet the many requirements of the UK market, such as contactless payment and PAS 1899 accessible charging standard compliance. It also supports ISO 15118 plug & charge for seamless convenience and is future-proof with OCPP 2.0.1 upgradability. The UltraCharge 30 is easy to install and maintain, with full support provided by both Rolec and Sinexcel’s technical teams. As workplaces increasingly demand both DC and AC charging solutions for fleets, visitors, and employees, we offer a reliable and affordable product with a short lead time. Stocked in the UK by Rolec, available for next-day delivery to our UK customers starting later this year.” Charles Meng, Head of Charging Solutions at Sinexcel, commented: “We see our ongoing partnership with Rolec as a significant milestone toward achieving our shared vision. As we’ve deepened our relationship, we’ve become more aligned on common goals. Sinexcel admires Rolec’s steadfast commitment to zero emissions. Their team is professional and precise, consistently impressing us with their deep expertise in the EV charging industry and their drive for innovation. Our team’s visits to Boston since forming this partnership have been both engaging and productive, leading to exciting new aspirations. We’re thrilled to launch the UltraCharge 30 together. We take pride in such exceptional products and are confident that the UltraCharge 30 will be well-received in the UK and EU EV charging sectors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bicester Motion, the 444-acre future mobility estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire and Skyports Infrastructure, the leader in vertiport infrastructure for the advanced air mobility (AAM) industry, have been given the green light to build the UK’s first vertiport testbed for the electric air taxi industry. The application for the new vertiport to be built at Bicester Motion as part of its strategy to continue to be at the forefront of flight to welcome past, present and future technologies to its airfield, has been approved by local planning authority Cherwell District Council. The vertiport, positioned adjacent to Bicester Motion’s existing general aviation grass runways, will continue the airfield’s long history of aerospace innovation. It will include a compact 160 sq m passenger terminal which will be a critical facility for testing ground infrastructure and flight operations and will play a significant role in enabling the next generation of electric, low noise aviation in the UK. Skyports Infrastructure has partnered with Vertical Aerospace, a global aerospace and technology company pioneering zero-emissions aviation through electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. New designs have been unveiled to showcase Vertical Aerospace’s latest VX4 prototype which will be the first electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to fly at the Skyports vertiport. The VX4 is designed to be piloted, carry four passengers and have a range of up to 100 miles. The aircraft successfully completed its first tethered piloted flight in July and is now progressing through its robust piloted test flight programme. Vertical will use the Skyports vertiport to conduct demonstration flights and test key procedures ahead of commercial launch. The new renders have depicted the vertiport’s interior, which will be equipped with Skyports’ proprietary vertiport technology solutions, which include its Resource Management and Scheduling System (RMSS) and Vertiport Automation System (VAS). Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive, Bicester Motion said: “This is a significant moment for Bicester Motion and the future of aviation here. The former RAF Bicester was born in a period of intense technological innovation and played its role in 1938 when the Halifax prototype L7244 flew its maiden trail flights from Bicester. “Today, we continue to welcome aircraft from all eras including new mobility technologies to provide a viable future for our historic airfield through such pioneering partnerships as Skyports. The vertiport green light enables us to continue to host such aviation innovation and advance a world where sustainable and accessible electric aviation is in reach for all, with Bicester Motion at the centre.” Duncan Walker, chief executive, Skyports said: “With the green light from Cherwell District Council, now begins the exciting stage in vertiport development: building it. The tests and trials we conduct at this facility will be instrumental to the future of quiet, electric, vertical flight. Our vertiport at Bicester Motion will facilitate important learnings and demonstrations that advance the adoption of AAM. We are proud to be playing a pioneering role in shaping the future of this exciting industry in the UK.” The vertiport is being developed as part of the Advanced Mobility Ecosystem Consortium: a group of leading British aviation, technology and transportation organisations pioneering AAM in the UK, backed by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Flight Challenge. The vertiport will serve as a key node for the Consortium’s wider testing programme, including demonstration flights, ground operations, aircraft integration, and public and stakeholder engagement. Michael Cervenka, chief commercial & technology officer, Vertical Aerospace, added: “The Skyports vertiport is a critical piece of infrastructure, helping to get our VX4 aircraft up into the air and demonstrate to the world that the future of flight is electric. We’re excited to see what the UK’s first permanent vertiport will look like as we move into an important phase of the industry – making this real. The tests we carry out here in Bicester with our VX4 will advance our understanding of electric aviation and revolutionise how we travel – paving the way for zero emissions, quiet flight.” James Richmond, head of future flight, consortium lead AtkinsRéalis, said: “The vertiport living lab will go beyond demonstrating flight procedures and will validate the entire ecosystem the partners have created from the ground up. Gaining planning consent was a critical milestone and provided important learning for all stakeholders involved, helping to enable and scale advanced air mobility in the UK.” Construction is due to start in the Autumn. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading infrastructure supplier, FOR EV, has officially launched a major EV charging hub in Edinburgh. Located in Seafield Retail and Trade Park, just a five-minute drive from the popular Leith neighbourhood, the new hub provides a prime charging destination for EV drivers and shoppers travelling to and from the north of the city. FOR EV delivered the project with the site’s landowners and Scottish real estate asset managers, Rankeilour Properties. Providing a reliable location where local customers and passing travellers can ‘charge-and-go’, the new rapid chargers can deliver up to 200kW and provide the typical EV with 150 miles of range in 20-30mins. The hub has space to charge eight EVs simultaneously, with optimised load-balancing capabilities to minimise waiting times and maximise the charging speed for all drivers. With easy access via Seafield Road, the new EV charging hub is well-positioned amongst a variety of popular shops and food places, including Halfords, Greggs and McDonald’s. It includes a modern ‘tap and go’ contactless payment system, to provide users with quick and hassle-free payment while on the move, without having to sign up to an app. Seafield is the largest site FOR EV has installed in Edinburgh, where it has six others already in operation. Calum Wallace, Senior Business Development Manager at FOR EV, said: “The successful delivery of our new charging destination at Seafield Retail and Trade Park marks a significant milestone for FOR EV. This is our 30th site in Scotland, adding to our growing portfolio of locations across the country. The new hub will provide major benefits to the local community, with an accessible site adjacent to a busy thoroughfare where EV drivers can access fast and easy charging as they shop, or en route to their destination. With the local LEZ having launched just last month, we expect to see a growth in EV use around the city, and accessible, safe and reliable charging sites such as these are essential to support the transition. “As more drivers begin to make the transition to EV, our ambition is to support their journey by making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’re looking forward to furthering this support with the delivery of more reliable charging sites in the near future.” Jamie Fergusson, Co-owner of Rankeilour Properties, said: “Our new, reliable on-site charge points will be a great asset to not only our own business, but Seafield Retail and Trade Park as a whole. In addition to ensuring our team and customers benefit from accessible EV chargers, the hub will also support our neighbouring businesses by attracting EV drivers to the area and encouraging more engagement amongst the local community. “For EV have been excellent to work with from the initial planning stages, through to delivery. They have communicated with us every step of the way and successfully installed the chargers with minimal upheaval to the existing car park.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Siemens Smart Infrastructure has unveiled a new variant of its SICHARGE D electric vehicle (EV) fast charger, boasting a maximum output of 400 kW, tailored specifically for IEC markets. The SICHARGE D is designed to be future-proof, meeting the relevant standards, protocols, and regulations while remaining adaptable to both current and emerging charging requirements. Notably, the SICHARGE D dispenser allows for the simultaneous charging of up to four vehicles with just one grid connection, optimising charging times and offering financial and spatial savings for Charge Point Operators (CPOs). Markus Mildner, CEO of eMobility at Siemens Smart Infrastructure, stated: “The widespread adoption of eMobility is essential for a more sustainable future. Reducing charging times for both electric cars and trucks, especially during journeys, will be crucial in enhancing the convenience and acceptance of this mode of transport. The SICHARGE D represents a significant milestone in achieving this goal.” The SICHARGE D has been designed with flexibility in mind, making it ideally suited for various use cases, including destination charging, public fast-charging, and highway charging. It can provide a continuous, stable power output of 400 kW even in ambient temperatures of 40°C. The charger is equipped with a multi-language touchscreen featuring an intuitive user interface, along with cable management systems at both the charger and the dispenser, ensuring easy cable handling and making the charging process as convenient as possible for EV drivers. CPOs will also benefit from the charger’s flexibility, as the touch display offers options for advertising, and a variety of payment terminals can be integrated to match the CPO’s chosen payment partner. In addition, Siemens provides tailored services and ongoing support throughout the product’s entire lifecycle—from the initial installation to digital and remote services, as well as on-site assistance. Road transport remains the largest contributor to emissions within the EU’s transport sector, accounting for nearly three-quarters of transport-related greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the Fit for 55 package, the European Union (EU) has introduced new regulations targeting CO2 emissions from vehicles. These regulations increase the CO2 emission reduction targets for 2030 and set a new target of 100% for 2035. A robust EV charging network will be critical to achieving these goals. For more information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please visit www.siemens.com/smart-infrastructure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
