UK | Sainsbury’s ultra-rapid EV charging network has reached a major milestone by saving the equivalent of 60 million fossil fuel miles on UK roads, resulting in a reduction of 10.71 million kg of CO2 emissions compared to non-electric vehicles.
Smart Charge has made it easier for UK motorists to adopt electric vehicles by building the infrastructure to support the switch to cleaner transport. The service has been designed to improve access to on-the-go charging and is key in accelerating the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
Sainsbury’s launched the Smart Charge brand in January 2024, and the rapid success of its uptake by EV drivers reflected the scale and pace of its rollout. More than 650 ultra-rapid charging bays are now live across over 75 Sainsbury’s stores.
Smart Charge has supplied enough renewable energy through its ultra-rapid charging stations to power electric vehicles for over 60 million miles, journeys that would have otherwise needed petrol or diesel.
“Reaching 60 million fossil-free miles in just over a year shows what’s possible with investment and a relentless focus on our customers. We set out to remove the barriers to EV adoption by making charging fast, reliable and easy – and that’s exactly what Smart Charge delivers, at convenient locations where lots of EV drivers already shop,” said Patrick Dunne, Chief Property and Procurement Officer, MD of Smart Charge.
“Investing in our EV network is a key part of our Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy, and we’re just getting started. We’re excited to keep building on its initial success and take Smart Charge even further in the months and years ahead.”
Over the past 12 months, Sainsbury’s has invested GBP 25 million in the network, reinforcing its commitment to scaling high-performing sites and opening new Smart Charge hubs in key target locations.
“It’s amazing that Sainsbury’s has powered 60 million miles worth of zero emission journeys in just over a year, thanks to its GBP 25m investment to install hundreds of chargers at its stores – helping drivers charge easily and conveniently while doing their shopping,” said Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood.
“We’re investing GBP 2.3 billion to help drivers switch to electric vehicles while putting money in the pockets of hardworking people by protecting jobs, backing British carmakers and driving growth as part of the Plan for Change.”
Using Smart Charge, customers can recharge their EVs in as little as 30 minutes with ultra-rapid 150 kw chargers while they shop, without needing subscriptions or apps. All the chargers are powered by the same 100 percent renewable energy that powers Sainsbury’s wider estate, and they come with access to 24/7 driver support.
At 72p per kWh, Smart Charge has one of the lowest tap-and-go ultra-rapid charging rates. Smart Charge customers also benefit from Nectar rewards.
The journey towards a cleaner, smarter and more convenient future is underway. Smart Charge is just one of the ways Sainsbury’s delivers for customers today, while building a better tomorrow. The service is intended to help advance the uptake of electric vehicles in the UK, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.
