Member Article

Electric vehicle infrastructure specialist sparks up UK transformation

A prominent electric vehicle charging business is set to capitalise on a growing market after securing a number of strategic partnerships in 2020.

And the deals include world leaders in EV infrastructure and charging technology. Wirral-based firm adi Vehicle Charging Solutions (VCS) only launched at the beginning of the year but is already making huge inroads into the world of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.

In June, the business propelled forward its partnership with EV charging provider Franklin Energy, assuming responsibility to deliver a ‘Recharge Network’ for Merseytravel across the Merseyside and Liverpool City region. This consisted of 52 existing public charge points across 21 sites within Merseyside, setting the scene for rapid growth.

And now in conjunction with Franklin Energy, adi VCS has extended its reach across a further 21 sites in the UK, as part of a far-reaching infrastructure roll-out project for leading national car park operators Q-Park.

With large parts of the North West, including Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Lancashire also benefitting from adi VCS’ specialist services, the firm’s strategic assault to charge up the UK shows no signs of losing spark:

“What we’ve found is that EV demand is really growing as anticipated,” said company brainchild, Kenneth Green.

“You already had a fledgling market, and with the announcement last month of the new diesel and petrol car ban from 2030, you have an industry that has been really solidified as the way forward.

“As infrastructure specialists, we’ve been keeping a watchful eye, and to this end we’ve been completing projects across the UK and Ireland, with strategic partnerships helping extend our scale and reach to be one of the leading specialists in the market.”

“It’s an exciting period, and one which we look forward to progressing throughout 2021 and beyond.”

World leaders adi VCS can link to its name are Schneider Electric and EVBox Group, which combined can provide the complete EV infrastructure package, from 7.4 – 22kW AC fleet and public charging systems to 50 - 350kW DC Micro Grid Charging Hubs.

“EVBox Group and adi VCS share a customer-focused approach that makes them great partners for EV adoption in the UK,” said EVBox Group regional director, UK & Ireland, Jonathan Goose.

“The product portfolio of EVBox Group enables adi VCS to deliver innovative EV charging solutions that meet and exceed the expectations of its customers.”

Through its forged alliances, adi VCS are helping a range of parties, from city councils, blue chip companies, fleet operators and big name retailers, realise the cost and fuel saving benefits that can be gained with the EV switch.

“We’re delighted to be connecting with innovative partners and industry professionals to drive forward the e-mobility transition,” states David Hall, VP Power Systems UK & Ireland at Schneider Electric.

“As we fast approach the 2050 Net Zero goal, the integration of more low carbon energy and an improved electrical infrastructure will be essential to encouraging end users to adopt electric vehicles.”

One of institutions already reaping the benefits of the adi VCS glow is the North West Ambulance Service, which after launching a successful pilot, has become one of the first services in the UK to fully embrace the EV drive.

After initially receiving 33 charging points at 17 sites across the North West through adi and Franklin Energy, the service is now set to embark on further expansion and procurement of new vehicles into the New Year.

With ongoing operation and maintenance for the next five years, the project is expected to deliver fuel cost savings of £2.5m for the service over this period. And with a trial installation of chargers at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool also in the mix, the emergency services is proving to be a receptive sector for the EV upgrade.

“These examples with North West Ambulance Service and more demonstrate how an organisation’s fleet can benefit from huge reductions in fuel expense,” added Green.

“While there is the initial outlay, the long-term realisation far outweighs any upfront cost, so we’re really encouraging all businesses, land developers and more to understand that the EV revolution is here, and to get on board now to secure a profitable future.”

Commenting on the adi VCS partnership, Robert Byrne, founder and MD of Franklin Energy, added:

“We are delighted about our strategic partnership with adi VCS and to have them carry out the design, installation, maintenance and servicing works for our projects.

“Our relationship with Kenneth and the team continues to thrive and we look forward to strengthening this relationship in 2021.”

Residential and commercial developments are another key target on adi VCS’ ever growing target list.

The firm recently agreed to work on an interlinked charging system between the Wirral Waters development by Peel Land and Property and the Wirral Master Plan, in conjunction with Wirral Council.

It also holds a partnership with Urban Splash, an award-winning building regeneration company that is transforming residential developments across the country, incorporating EV charge points into the housing mix.

And with adi VCS having the wider backing of the adi Automotive division, with household car manufacturers to its name, the business is set to continue expanding its presence alongside the fledging electric car revolution.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by adi Group .