Applegreen Electric charge points in use

CPOs in the Spotlight – Applegreen Electric

Cutting to the chase with the UK's charge point operators
By
Zapmap
Updated
21/11/2024

There are dozens of CPOs across the country, why should drivers filter for Applegreen Electric when they open Zapmap?

At Applegreen Electric, we don’t just provide fast and reliable EV charging, we enhance the entire charging experience.  Our charge points are strategically positioned at established service areas with a range of high-quality food and beverage options such as Starbucks, Burger King, Greggs and many other well-known brands, complemented by our Welcome Break own brand offering The Good Breakfast. Drivers can relax, refuel, and enjoy top-tier amenities while their vehicle charges, ensuring convenience and comfort at every stop along their journey. With many of our UK sites supporting up to 24 vehicles charging at once, we minimise wait time and queuing thus maximising convenience! This unique blend of charging and hospitality makes us a top choice for drivers across the UK.

 

What's been the biggest surprise for Applegreen Electric so far this year, and how have you responded to that?

One of the biggest surprises this year has been the growing demand for seamless, subscription-free access across charging networks from both individual EV drivers and fleet operators. Users want the flexibility to charge at any station without multiple accounts or complex payment, invoicing and billing systems. 

To address this, we’ve expanded partnerships with platforms like Zap-Pay, allowing hassle-free roaming across a wide range of charging networks. Additionally, we have enhanced our fleet services support, offering pay-as-you-go solutions that simplify charging management. Our goal is to make EV charging as simple and efficient as possible, empowering drivers and fleets to charge anywhere, without the need for multiple accounts or subscriptions. These efforts aim to significantly improve the overall charging experience for both individual drivers and fleet operators.

 

What is your most unique location in your network and why?

Our London Gateway site is our flagship and most unique location, strategically located on the M1 motorway between Junction 2 and 4with an Annual Average Daily Flow of more than 65,000 vehicles daily. This site has 24 ultra-fast charge points , offering our latest and most advanced EV charging tech.   But it’s not just about our charging offering, the site offers a host of amenities including Starbucks, Burger King, Waitrose, and Krispy Kreme.  With 24-hour accessibility, free Wi-Fi, showers, and even a Ramada Hotel on site its more than just a charging site it’s a popular location in its own right. Whether you are travelling to or from key places like Heathrow Airport or central London this location offers a safe, convenient and comfortable stop for drivers needing to relax and recharge themselves and their vehicles. 

 

Applegreen Electric London Gateway hub

AppleGreen Electric London Gateway site

 

What will the public EV charging solution look like by 2040, and how will it differ from the solutions offered today?

By 2040, public EV charging will likely be even more integrated into everyday life, with ubiquitous availability in both urban and even the most remote rural locations. Charging speeds will increase significantly, with ultra-fast charging becoming the norm, allowing vehicles to charge much faster and conveniently to get you back on your journey sooner. Energy efficiency and sustainability will also be core to every charging point, with renewable energy powering a majority of the network.

 

Applegreen Electric Hopwood charging site

Applegreen Electric Hopwood charging site

 

How are you making the charging experience simple for drivers across the UK?

We focus on a seamless, easy-to-use experience through our tap-and-go payment system, user-friendly hardware, and 24/7 customer support. To ensure drivers always find an available charger, we try to install more charging ports than needed for current demand, reducing wait times and maximizing availability at every site. Our charging stations are strategically located at high-traffic motorway service areas, allowing drivers to quickly exit and rejoin motorways with ease and safety. These locations are safe, well-lit, and familiar to drivers, providing a sense of reliability and comfort. By choosing these convenient locations, we ensure that charging is not only fast and seamless but also integrated into drivers' regular journeys without unnecessary detours. 

Additionally, our Applegreen Electric app provides real-time information on charger availability, making it easy for drivers to plan their stops efficiently, and allows users to charge seamlessly at a reduced rate without any subscription. Our recent partnerships with the likes of Zap-Pay further showcase our commitment to accessible charging.

 

What can electric car drivers expect from Applegreen Electric in the next six months?

In the next six months, we’re set to expand our network significantly, with a focus on adding ultra-fast charging stations to even more of our Welcome Break sites. 

We are also enhancing the overall customer experience by launching an updated app and website, while continuing to improve charger reliability and ease of use. As the EV industry grows you can expect to see us in more locations- Watch this space!

 

Applegreen Electric Newark site

Applegreen Electric Newark WecomeBreak site

 

What would be your question for the next CPO we speak to?

How are you collaborating with other CPOs and industry players to create a more unified and consistent EV charging experience for drivers?