Growing order book of fast EV charger installations reflects surge in demand
Dixon Group is playing its part in helping the UK meet the challenge of switching away from fossil fuelled cars to electric vehicles (EVs) with demand already high for installations of our fast EV chargers in 2022.
Part of our Dixon Facilities Management division, a dedicated EV installation team was established last year and carried out installations for the likes of Wykeland Group at company premises, at the new Fruit Market public car park in Hull, and for global pharmaceutical company Indivior.
Looking ahead for 2022, Rob Bartle, head of operations at Dixon Facilities Management, says the order book for the first three months of the year alone accounts for more EV chargers installations than his team carried out over the previous 12 months.
“I think the demand we are seeing is a result of our name starting to reach people in terms of us being involved the EV market, and a reflection of how 2022 is set to see a huge surge in demand for electric vehicles, particularly from businesses,” he said.
“Our initial installations last year were mainly carried out on behalf of clients who know us well and have used us before for our long-standing electrical and mechanical expertise, and that is something we can continue to build upon.
“We have many clients who we have worked with for many years who know they can trust us to advise and support them well when investing in new technology such as this.
“We have also been encouraged by the number of businesses approaching us for advice and looking to install EV chargers at a number of premises and locations, both for their own staff and for visitors.”
New homes and businesses required to have EV charging stations
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last November that EV charging stations will be required for all new homes and businesses in the UK starting this year.
The new measure aims to boost EV adoption in the nation by adding up to 145,000 extra charging points each year, with the current number estimated to be around 25,000.
Installations of ultra-rapid chargers are expected to be in high demand, particularly at locations which will provide ‘en-route’ charging, allowing drivers to fully charge their cars in a short space of time, such as service stations.
Dixon Group has partnered with Project EV, specialists in providing the most cutting edge electric vehicle charging points and a business which has already deployed thousands of chargers into the residential market.
The company offers smart charging options such as app controlled operation and automated charging at the cheapest times, with chargers also coming with a five-year warranty.
“We were delighted to be partnered with Project EV as this has enabled us to work alongside a business which has really led the way in this market, and also be able to provide installation of rapid chargers, which can charge to 80% in just an hour,” added Mr Bartle.
“The five year warranty provides peace of mind for customers as they know they are going to have crucial support should it be needed.
“We are already speaking to a number of potential customers about the rapid chargers, businesses which have a high number of relatively short stay guests, and we can see this as an area of growth.”
Leading the way themselves, Dixon Group are awaiting delivery of their first fleet of electric vehicles, and will be establishing a demonstration charging area the company headquarters in Henry Boot Way, Priory Park, Hull.
“Our own charging stations will allow us demonstrate to clients the differing technology behind the chargers and which is best suited to their needs, whilst also helping us to explain how they can help generate additional revenue also,” added Mr Bartle.
