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Govia Thameslink Railway opens ‘largest EV charging hub in rail’

Posted: 10 September 2020 |

The installation is said to mark a milestone in a station improvements programme being undertaken by GTR, which encompasses more than 230 stations and over 1,000 individual projects.

EV hub by GTR

Credit: GTR

On World Electric Vehicle (EV) Day (9 September 2020), Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) welcomed Secretary of State Grant Shapps to open ‘rail’s largest dedicated EV charging hub’ at Hatfield station, which features a total of 27 charging points.

The installation is part of a programme which aims to enhance the overall journey experience by making stations smarter, safer, more comfortable and more environmentally sustainable. Much of the work has been suggested by local passenger and community groups.

In partnership with Pod Point, a provider of EV charging infrastructure, Hatfield’s new hub has been opened to meet the increasing consumer demand for EVs whilst also demonstrating the company’s commitment to sustainability.

The locations were chosen as a result of a heat-mapping exercise conducted by the rail operator, which revealed EV ownership and sales ‘hot spots’ around the UK. With an increasing number of people switching to EVs, GTR aims to provide greater access to charging infrastructure. The new charging points are in addition to the existing 114 in place across the GTR network, which have all undergone improvements as part of the project.

Tom Moran, Managing Director for Thameslink and Great Northern, said: “We’re delighted to officially unveil our new EV charging hub at Hatfield station. This is part of a much wider programme of works to improve station facilities at every station across the GTR network and give a better experience to our passengers.

“We have over 1,000 improvement projects happening across our network and many will help improve the sustainability of our stations, especially as our local communities seek out options for the greenest forms of travel.”

Shapps commented: “We’re taking great strides towards our goal of having one of the best electric vehicle infrastructure networks in the world. This means a network for current and future electric vehicle drivers that is affordable, reliable, accessible and secure.

“Today’s landmark announcement ticks all those boxes and will make journeys on road and rail much greener for local residents, commuters and businesses.”

A dedicated Station Improvements web page is now available for GTR passengers and local communities to access information on what’s happening at their station to improve ambiance, experience and sustainability.