Shell has created its first UK EV hub by replacing fuel pumps at an existing forecourt with ultra-rapid charge point.

Shell’s former fuel station at Fulham now houses nine ultra-rapid 175kW charge points

It’s the first time the company has converted one of its existing sites to cater solely for electric vehicles and forms the start of a global pilot.

The site now houses nine ultra-rapid 175kW charge points which can charge most vehicles from 0-80% within 10 minutes – three times faster than more widely used 50kW rapid chargers.

István Kapitány, Shell’s global executive vice president for mobility, said the new EV hub would cater for electric vehicle drivers’ requirements.

“EV drivers are looking for a charging experience that is as fast, convenient and comfortable as possible. This is exactly what Shell Fulham aims to offer. It joins our growing network of Shell Recharge sites at forecourts and other locations, our Ubitricity on-street charging network, and our Shell Recharge Solutions for homes and businesses as we increasingly help EV drivers to charge wherever they need it. It also gives us all a glimpse into the future of mobility.”

As with all of Shell’s EV chargers in the UK, the new devices at Shell Fulham run on 100% certified renewable electricity.

The hub also debuts a sustainable design including a timber canopy with built-in solar panels, and roof and shop windows that employ double glazing with high insulating properties.

Driver comfort and convenience features include a seating area, free Wi-Fi, a Costa Coffee cafe and a Little Waitrose & Partners store.

Shell has previously stated an ambition to install 50,000 on-street chargers in the UK by 2025 through subsidiary Ubitricity, and in July 2021 announced that up to 800 Shell electric vehicle charging points would be installed in as many as 100 Waitrose sites across the UK by 2025.

Transport Minister Trudy Harrison said the hub was exactly the type of facility needed to help make the EV transition as simple as possible for drivers up and down the country.

“This Government has committed £2.5bn to vehicle grants and infrastructure to support the switch to EVs. In addition to Government efforts, it is equally encouraging to see businesses support the EV transition – and Shell’s new hub is a brilliant example of the UK’s huge effort to go-green and reach our important net-zero targets.”