Hitachi Capital has announced a £10m investment into GRIDSERVE, with an aim to deliver more than 100 Electric Forecourts across the UK in the next five years.
In December 2020, Hitachi helped GRIDSERVE to fund Britains first all-electric charging forecourt in Braintree, Essex.
The forecourt allows 36 electric vehicles (EVs) to be charged simultaneously, using superpower to enable drivers to add 200 miles of range in just 20 minutes.
Over the next 5 years, GRIDSERVE will deliver more than 100 Electric Forecourts across the UK, delivering fast, ultra-convenient and reliable charging for EVs.’
The aim of this partnership is to create the infrastructure needed to accelerate the adoption of EVs and revolutionise the UK’s approach to solar energy.
The partnership also encompasses the UK’s first net-zero EV leasing business, which is designed to bring the cost of driving an EV well below that of petrol or diesel cars.
Robert Gordon, CEO of Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC, said: ‘Our collaboration with GRIDSERVE to deliver sustainable energy marks a breakthrough in delivering the world-class infrastructure the UK needs in order to accelerate electric mobility.
‘Combining our financial strength and motor industry expertise with GRIDSERVE’s leading renewable energy work is a perfect partnership to create a new revolutionary green energy future. Our intention is to become a market leader for EV adoption and today’s announcement, along with our commitment that 20% of our assets will support sustainable business projects over the next five years, shows our determination to deliver on that promise.’
Toddington Harper, CEO of GRIDSERVE Sustainable Energy Ltd, added: ‘Having Hitachi Capital (UK) PLC as a shareholder in GRIDSERVE represents a major milestone and landmark moment in GRIDSERVE’s journey to deliver sustainable energy and move the needle on climate change.
‘Delivering the UK’s first Electric Forecourt® with net zero carbon energy provided by Clayhill Solar Farm, as well as launching the UK’s first net zero leasing business, is testament to the results and benefits we can deliver through our partnership, and we look forward to delivering many more Electric Forecourts® and sustainable energy projects together in the months and years ahead.’