Mercedes Benz, smart to begin installation of EV recharging points in the UK

07 June 2010

Mercedes-Benz and smart are gearing up to support the widespread uptake of electric vehicles (EV) in the UK by starting a programme that will see recharging

Mercedes-Benz and smart are gearing up to support the widespread uptake of electric vehicles (EV) in the UK by starting a programme that will see recharging points being installed in their dealer networks across the country.

As part of the pilot phase of the project, 20 Elektrobay recharging units built by the UK-based firm, Elektromotive, have been installed at seven different locations. The programme is planned to be expanded later this year.

Electric vehicles will form an increasingly important part of our product development plans, and it is crucial that we put in place a recharging infrastructure to help our dealers and customers join the zero-emission revolution", said Dermot Kelly, the managing director of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "Elektromotive is the natural partner for this project, and we are delighted with the work that they have done so far in getting the Elektrobay recharging points up and running".

Later this summer, microcar manufacturer, smart, will be initiating public test drives on its newest version of the zero emission, smart electric drive. The Elektrobays have been put together in designated charging bays at smart/ Mercedes-Benz sites and will be available to motorists who will take part in the smart for two electric drive trial.

"This is the first time that Elektromotive has worked so closely with a vehicle manufacturer to install Elektrobays at dealerships. It is an exciting and important development in the creation of a nationwide recharging infrastructure, and is an approach we expect to be copied by other car makers and their retail networks in the UK and beyond", added Calvey Taylor-Haw, the managing director of Elektromotive.

So far three recharging units have been installed at Mercedes-Benz World in Weybridge, Surrey, seven at 3 different Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the Midlands, four at Mercedes-Benz flagship dealers in Brentford, three at Mercedes-Benz UK in Milton Keynes and three outside the Edgware Road showroom in London.

The installation works have been undertaken by infrastructure specialist Vinci Energies United Kingdom.

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