Major electric vehicle charging hub launches in Edinburgh

A SIGNIFICANT milestone for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Edinburgh has been reached with the official launch of a major EV charging hub.

Located at Seafield Retail and Trade Park, just a five-minute drive from Leith, the new hub offers a prime location for people travelling to and from the north of the city.

FOR EV, a leading supplier in the EV infrastructure sector, delivered the project in collaboration with Rankeilour Properties, the site’s landowners and Scottish real estate asset managers.

The hub features rapid chargers capable of delivering up to 200kW, enabling the typical EV to gain 150 miles of range in just 20 to 30 minutes.

With space for eight vehicles to charge simultaneously, the site employs advanced load-balancing technology to reduce waiting times and optimise charging speeds.

It also boasts a modern “tap and go” contactless payment system, allowing for quick and hassle-free transactions without the need for an app.

This is the largest site FOR EV has installed in Edinburgh, joining its six other locations within the city.

Calum Wallace, senior business development manager at FOR EV, said: “The successful delivery of our new charging destination at Seafield Retail and Trade Park marks a significant milestone for FOR EV.

“This is our 30th site in Scotland, adding to our growing portfolio of locations across the country.

“The new hub will provide major benefits to the local community, with an accessible site adjacent to a busy thoroughfare where EV drivers can access fast and easy charging as they shop, or en route to their destination.”

Wallace also highlighted the importance of such infrastructure with the recent launch of Edinburgh’s low emission zone, predicting a rise in EV usage around the city.

He added: “As more drivers begin to make the transition to EV, our ambition is to support their journey by making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

“We’re looking forward to furthering this support with the delivery of more reliable charging sites in the near future.”

Jamie Fergusson, co-owner of Rankeilour Properties, said: “Our new, reliable on-site charge points will be a great asset to not only our own business, but Seafield Retail and Trade Park as a whole.

“In addition to ensuring our team and customers benefit from accessible EV chargers, the hub will also support our neighbouring businesses by attracting EV drivers to the area and encouraging more engagement amongst the local community.”

The collaboration between FOR EV and Rankeilour Properties was praised for its seamless execution.

Only minimal disruption to the existing car park occurred during the installation of the new charging facilities.