Shell Recharge Solutions has added more than 240 extra ultra-rapid charge points to its UK network under a new deal with Motor Fuel Group (MFG).

Shell Recharge customers now have access to MFG’s network of high-powered electric vehicle chargers via their app

The roaming agreement gives Shell Recharge customers access to MFG’s network of high-powered electric vehicle chargers via their app.

MFG is one of the country’s largest independent forecourt operators and has big plans to install 2,800 ultra-rapid 150kW and 350kW EV chargers at around 500 of its sites by the end of 2030 under a £400m investment.

The new roaming deal with the company will prove particularly beneficial for Shell Recharge customers charging on the go, such as fleet drivers who now have access to ultra-rapid chargers found on motorways, a-roads and at dedicated EV hubs.

But it will also help support growing driver demand for renewable energy – as with the Shell Recharge network at Shell forecourts and at destinations, all of MFG’s electricity is certified 100% renewable. Shell Recharge Solutions’ 2022 EV Driver Survey found more than 35% of UK drivers said they only charge using renewable energy.

Shell Recharge Solutions said the deal was the latest example of collaboration across EV charging networks and would help build a more cohesive and flexible public network in the UK.

Euan Moir, regional manager for the UK & Nordics, elaborated: “A more accessible network provides a higher level of confidence, and a far more consistent and better customer experience, encouraging more drivers and businesses to accelerate their transition to e-mobility.”

Martin Symes, operations director, EV Network at MFG, also highlighted the benefits of the tie-up to EV drivers.

“At MFG, our focus is to provide an easy access network for all EV drivers to be able to charge, and working in synergy with roaming partners is a key component of that. Our sites have been built with customer journeys and safety in mind and offer ultra-rapid charging with food-to-go offerings in safe, well-lit and secure environments that include services such as valeting. MFG EV Power is also excited to have a pipeline of amazing sites to add in 2023.”

Latest figures from MFG showed its network expanded with seven new charging sites in December 2022 – said to be the biggest-ever monthly roll-out of 150kW chargers for a charge point operator in the UK.

MFG EV charging hubs consist of between four and eight ultra-rapid 150kW chargers per site, which will be augmented with chargers delivering 300kW upwards as vehicle battery technology improves. Its new hubs also feature multiple food outlets and valet services.