Arnold Clark Charge, the UK-wide ultra-rapid EV charging network run by one of the largest car dealers in the UK, is now open to the public.

The network was launched last year as part of a £30m investment, delivering bookable ultra-rapid charging at Arnold Clark branches.

It’s now available to the public, delivering more than 50 Arnold Clark Charge hubs live across the UK, with work well underway to have more locations added by the end of the year.

There will be up to eight rapid chargers with the ability to charge up to 150kW installed at Arnold Clark branches.

Prices for ultra-rapid charging are set at a rate of 55p/kWh, compared to 81p/kWh on other networks, according to Zapmap.

Payment for charging can be made on the Arnold Clark app, or via contactless and roaming cards/apps, with Arnold Clark partnering with Allstar business solutions, Zap-Pay, Octopus Electroverse and Plugsurfing.

The bays at the branches will be split between Arnold Clark app users and Pay & Go customers.

Chargers can still be booked through the app, with most sites being 24/7 accessible.

Russell Borrie, chief executive at Arnold Clark, said: “With electric vehicles becoming increasingly popular, it’s essential that our charging infrastructure keeps pace with rising demand.

“That’s why we’ve made significant investments in our own UK-wide, bookable ultra-rapid charging network, Arnold Clark Charge. These new charging hubs are designed to provide the public with convenient, reliable, and cost-effective charging solutions while they’re on the move.”

Members of the public can download the Arnold Clark app, create an account and then sign up to Arnold Clark Charge. They can then book a charge at a time or place that suits them.

Alongside Arnold Clark Charge, the group has partnered with home charge point installer Bumblebee to provide customers with a wide range of home charging options, featuring the latest technology and offers. Arnold Clark customers can also visit its Electric Innovation Centres in Glasgow or Stafford to meet a team of alternatively fuelled vehicle experts, learn more about electric and get charging advice, driving tips and more. This information is also easily accessible on the firm’s Electric Hub online.