By Paul Atkins

Copyright dailyrecord

Arnold Clark has announced its UK-wide ultra-rapid EV charging network is now open to the public in Ayr.

Last year, as part of a £30 million investment, the UK’s largest independently owned, family-run car retailer launched its own bookable ultra-rapid charging network, Arnold Clark Charge.

There are currently more than 50 Arnold Clark Charge hubs live at Arnold Clark branches across the UK, including 24 across the west coast of Scotland.

Up to 12 rapid chargers, capable of charging up to 150kW, are available at each hub. Work is well underway to add more locations by the end of the year.

Drivers will also be able to enjoy great-value ultra-rapid charging at a rate of 55p/kWh.

Payment for charging can be made on the Arnold Clark app, or via contactless and roaming cards/apps, with Arnold Clark partnering with Allstar business solutions, Zap-Pay, Octopus Electroverse and Plugsurfing.

The bays at the branches will be split between Arnold Clark app users and Pay & Go customers.

Chargers can still be booked through the app, and most sites are 24/7 accessible. Customers can also enjoy a refreshment while they charge during the branch’s opening hours.

‘Committed to investing in the future’

Russell Borrie, Chief Executive Officer at Arnold Clark, said: “We’re committed to investing in the future of the automotive industry and making electric vehicle charging accessible to everyone.

“With electric vehicles becoming increasingly popular, it’s essential that our charging infrastructure keeps pace with rising demand.

“That’s why we’ve made significant investments in our own UK-wide, bookable ultra-rapid charging network, Arnold Clark Charge.

“These new charging hubs are designed to provide the public with convenient, reliable, and cost-effective charging solutions while they’re on the move.”

Book a charge at a time or place that suits you

Members of the public can download the Arnold Clark app, create an account, and sign up for Arnold Clark Charge. They can then book a charge at a time or place that suits them.

As electric vehicles become increasingly popular with motorists, Arnold Clark Charge is a significant infrastructural investment that will support drivers as they make the switch to electric, helping to eliminate range and charging anxiety.

And with the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles drawing ever closer, this marks another important step for Arnold Clark as it looks to prepare customers for the upcoming shift to electric.

Find out more

For further information and to download the app, visit www.arnoldclark.com/charge