In an era where sustainability is not just an option but a necessity, electric vehicles (EVs) are leading the charge toward a greener future. Tingley Garden Centre has 56 Compleo chargers and was an obvious stop for the recent showcase of electric vehicle technology in July, the EV Rally. 50+ electric vehicles including cars, vans, motorbikes and HGVs all stopped at the garden centre near Leeds to recharge their batteries and top up their vehicles. The showcase event is not just a notable occasion but a glimpse into the future of everyday life. This event is significant for several reasons, illustrating the critical need for more charging locations like this, showcasing the benefits for both EV drivers and non-EV drivers, and highlighting the economic boost such infrastructure can bring to businesses.
Read on or watch our video here…
Why We Need More Chargers at More Charging Locations
As the popularity of electric vehicles continues to soar, the demand for accessible and reliable charging infrastructure is escalating. Tingley Garden Centre’s 56 EV charging points are a beacon of what is necessary to support the rapid adoption of EVs. Here’s why:
1. Reducing Range Anxiety: One of the biggest hurdles for potential EV buyers is range anxiety—the fear of running out of battery power without a nearby charging station. Having more chargers in more locations alleviate this concern, making EV ownership more practical and appealing. While many poeople will spend a few hours mooching around a garden centre and cafe, the 54 AC chargers are ideal, capable of adding up to 22kW per hour to an EV. And for those who need a quick top up, they can nip off the M62 and charge up using one of the two 50kW DC chargers.
“This is what we need for the future, not just 1 or 2 chargers, we need far more than that. So it’s a message to investors, developers, those putting up superstores – plan for the future now and it will pay dividends.” Edmund King, OBE, President of the AA – click to read LinkedIn post
2. Encouraging Adoption: Visible and abundant charging stations encourage more people to switch to electric vehicles. When potential buyers see a robust charging infrastructure, it reinforces the feasibility and convenience of owning an EV.
3. Supporting Sustainable Goals: As cities and countries set ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions, expanding the charging network is essential. It ensures that the increasing number of EVs on the road can be supported sustainably.
Benefits for EV and Non-EV Drivers
The presence of 56 charging points in one car park offers significant advantages for both EV drivers and those still using petrol and diesel vehicles.
- Convenience for EV Drivers: For the 50+ electric vehicles visiting the garden centre as part of the EV rally, the ample charging points meant minimal wait times and the convenience of topping up their vehicles while they shop or relax. This ease of access is crucial in promoting a seamless transition to electric driving.
- Awareness for Non-EV Drivers: Seeing a large number of charging stations can be an eye-opener for non-EV drivers. It normalizes the presence of EVs and showcases the growing infrastructure, potentially encouraging them to consider an electric vehicle for their next purchase.
“My fundamental belief is that you should be charging when you’re doing something, and not finding something to do whilst you charge” Chris Chandler, Lex Automotive
Economic Benefits for the Garden Centre
The installation of multiple EV charging points is not just an environmentally friendly initiative but also a smart business move. Here’s how it benefits the garden centre:
Increased Foot Traffic: EV drivers who come to charge their vehicles are likely to spend time exploring the garden centre. While their car charges, they have the opportunity to browse plants, garden tools, and other products, increasing the likelihood of purchases.
“I spent money in the garden centre I wasn’t going to spend!” EV Driver
2. Boost to Coffee Shop and Play Areas: Charging an EV takes time, often between 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the charger type. During this period, visitors may opt to relax in the coffee shop, enjoy a meal, or let their children play in the soft play or outdoor adventure areas. This not only enhances the visitor experience but also drives sales in these sections of the business.
“Having something to do while you’re there and charging is key” Lorna McAteer, National Grid Fleet Manager
- Enhanced Reputation: Positioning itself as an eco-friendly and forward-thinking establishment, the garden centre attracts a more diverse and environmentally conscious clientele. This reputation can lead to increased loyalty and positive word-of-mouth, further driving business growth.
“Having more destinations like this that offer customers and drivers something else is just an untapped opportunity at the moment” Clare Nicol, Head of Marketing & Communications, Compleo UK
Conclusion
The arrival of the EV Rally , bringing with it over 50 electric vehicles at Tingley Garden Centre with 56 Compleo EV charging points is a powerful statement about the future of transportation and business. It underscores the necessity for more widespread charging infrastructure, showcases the benefits for both EV and non-EV drivers, and highlights the economic advantages for businesses. As we continue to embrace sustainability, initiatives like this are not just beneficial but essential in steering us toward a greener and more prosperous future.
Links
To find out more about the EV Rally click here. http://www.ev-rally.co.uk/ And to visit Tingley Garden Centre click here https://tingleygardencentre.co.uk/
