Openreach has partnered with Sainsbury’s Smart Charge to power its fast-growing electric fleet through a new ultra-rapid charging deal.

The broadband giant is using Sainsbury’s nationwide EV charging network to provide its engineers with access to ultra-rapid charging hubs in 80 locations across the country, cutting electric van downtime.

The agreement gives access to 150kW chargers, backed by tap‑to‑pay pricing, Nectar points on every charge and 24/7 support, making it easier for engineers to keep their electric vans on the road.

Openreach now has well over 6,000 electric vans out on the road, making it one of the UK’s largest electric fleets. It’s also installed more than 3,500 home chargers for its engineers throughout the country already as part of a £3m investment in charging infrastructure, supporting its transition to a low-emission fleet.

But with one in three engineers unable to install a home charger, and around half of its EV drivers relying primarily on public charging, the agreement delivers a practical solution to help keep the fleet moving.

Judy O’Keefe, director of fleet at Openreach, said the new partnership would deliver measurable benefits and remove barriers to EV adoption, supporting the company’s Let’s Reach Zero strategy.

“Switching a fleet of our size to electric is a big job, and it only works if day-to-day charging is simple for our engineers – the people who are out on the road every day keeping the country connected. Reducing emissions across the fleet also brings real benefits for local communities, with cleaner air and less noise in the towns and villages we serve.”

“With this agreement, our engineers – particularly those who can’t install a home charger – have access to fast, reliable public charging at Sainsbury’s stores nationwide. They get competitive rates and earn Nectar points every time they plug in. It’s a simple, practical benefit that helps keep them moving and supports the high-quality service our customers expect.”

Emma Williams, director of commercial & customer at Smart Charge, said the agreement shows how Smart Charge can make life easier for drivers who rely on their vehicles every day.

“Our ultra‑rapid hubs are easy to use and reliable, giving Openreach engineers the confidence that they can power up quickly and get back on the road in no time. With large sites meaning plenty of bays, Nectar points on every charge and the convenience of being located at Sainsbury’s stores, drivers can top up their vans while picking up lunch or grabbing a coffee. We’re proud to support one of the UK’s largest electric fleets and play a part in helping Openreach move towards a cleaner, low‑emissions future.”