The first rapid charge post went live at the company’s Clacket Lane Services site on the M25 last Thursday. Like the rest of the forthcoming network, it is operated on a pay-as-you-go system allowing passing drivers to use the units without needing a subscription.

The new chargers will be operated by electric vehicle infrastructure specialists Engenie, using technology and software provided by Schneider Electric and Critical Software. The electrical installation will be managed by Schneider Electric with all civil engineering being completed by specialists Bam Nuttall. Once complete, it will offer UK-wide coverage on major routes, in turn giving electric vehicle drivers the option to undertake long-distance trips without needing to find inner-city locations for fast recharging.

Transport Minister Norman Baker said: ‘Drivers are used to having a filling station within easy reach and want reassurance that vehicles using alternative technologies will also be easy to refuel or recharge.

‘These motorway charging points give the assurance that electric vehicles can go the distance. As more and more rapid charge points become available, worries about range are looking increasingly out of date and are unfounded.’