The project at Welcome Break Corley Services, situated between Junctions 3 and 3A on the M6, represents a major advance for ultra-rapid EV charging infrastructure in the UK. Two substantial battery storage units will be installed on both sides of the motorway.
The system will store electricity on-site and deliver it directly to the chargers, which allows InstaVolt to operate with a smaller grid connection while still maintaining reliable ultra-rapid charging performance, even when demand is high. By lowering both standing and capacity charges, this setup also makes it possible for InstaVolt to offer its off-peak charging rate of 60p per kWh between 20:00 and 07:00.
Start of battery rollout programme
This marks the start of InstaVolt’s battery rollout programme, with a further 12 batteries scheduled for installation across its network in the coming weeks. The next sites to receive batteries will be in North Wales and Eastbourne.
UK – Battery electric vehicles power toward 25% of market
Once completed, the upgraded Corley Services on the M6 will offer greater convenience for drivers and support improved fleet efficiency along one of the UK’s busiest transport corridors. The site will deliver faster, cleaner and more reliable charging for motorists on the go.
Upgrade existing chargers to 160kW
In addition to installing battery storage, InstaVolt will upgrade the existing chargers from 62.5 kW to 160 kW ultra-rapid units, further reducing charging times for drivers. The northbound site will feature eight chargers, while the southbound site will provide seven chargers for those travelling in the opposite direction.
Marcus Fendt: “Intelligent charging is possible immediately”
The installation at Welcome Break builds on InstaVolt’s experience with a similar system at its Winchester Superhub on the A34 near Winchester, which combines battery storage with solar power. The company currently operates more than 2,200 chargers across over 750 locations in the UK, all powered by 100 percent renewable energy. (hcn)
