The new rapid charging network at Welcome Break service stations is part of a long-term plan to install more than 150 rapid chargers across the UK by April 2014. Since 2011, 97 rapid chargers have been installed across the UK, of which 16 are sited at Welcome Break motorway service stations.

The chargers can charge a Nissan LEAF from 0 to 80% battery capacity in just 30 minutes.

Jim Wright, managing director of Nissan GB, said: ‘Nissan is working hard to ensure that 100% electric driving becomes accessible for all UK motorists and the installation of a rapid charging network on the motorway opens up EV ownership to thousands more motorists.

‘The UK’s charging landscape is improving daily, and we are very proud to be the main power source driving the development of infrastructure that will ultimately provide further flexibility and peace of mind to our LEAF drivers.’  

Ecotricity founder Dale Vince added: ‘The main barrier in people’s mind to the take-up of electric cars is their travel range and charging times.

‘Really these issues are one and the same. Concern over the distance that an electric car will travel on a single charge, called range anxiety, can be overcome if you have the right charging infrastructure in the right locations – to quickly recharge.’