BMW, Nissan, Renault And Volkswagen Join Forces For EV Charging

UK Rapid Charge Network (RCN) project, through the European Union's Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) program, attracted four automakers - BMW, Nissan, Renault and Volkswagen, which will join forces to build a network of a multi-standard fast chargers in Ireland and Europe.

According to the latest news, 10 out of 74 of the multi-standard chargers are already installed and a further 28 have been commissioned.

All of them will be 44kW CCS, 44kW CHAdeMO and 43kW AC systems, so no EV will be left without a charge option.

"Nissan is joined in the project by BMW, VW and Renault: it's the first time leading BEV companies have united to accelerate the growth of EV charging infrastructure, seen as a key enabler towards making zero-emission mobility a market reality. The project, managed by Zero Carbon Futures in Sunderland also draws on the network expertise of ESB, one of Ireland's foremost energy company and leader of a previous TEN-T project completed this summer, and Newcastle University." "When complete, the UK Rapid Charge Network (RCN) will comprise more than 70 multi standard rapid chargers covering some 1,100km of major trunk routes and providing EV-friendly links to five seaports and five international airports." "Running on two priority road axes on the mainland of the UK, the RCN will link major ports and cities including Stranraer, Liverpool, Holyhead, Birmingham, Felixstowe, Leeds and Kingston upon Hull. There will also be networks embracing Dublin, Ireland and Belfast, Northern Ireland." "The UK RCN is part of the European Union-financed Trans European Transport Network (TEN-T) and represents a substantial partnership investment of €7,358,000, half of which is being funded by the EU."

Baroness Kramer, UK Minister of State for Transport stated:

"We are serious about plug-in vehicles and have a comprehensive package of measures to help consumers and industry make the switch to electric. The UK now has the best rapid charging network in Europe. Projects like this highlight how industry is showing its confidence in the rapidly growing market."

Olivier Paturet, General Manager, Nissan Europe Zero Emission Strategy and RCN Project Leader commented:

"The UK's Rapid Charge Network will provide a vital sense of security for all EV drivers, as well as helping to promote the advantages of zero emission mobility to others. This project will have a major impact on the decarbonisation of European transport, and Nissan is thrilled to contribute to its viability."

RCN animation v2 from Surreal Creative on Vimeo.