Sainsbury's has opened Berkshire's first ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging hub in Winnersh.
The new 'Smart Charge' hub at the Sainsbury's Winnersh Superstore features six 150kW charging bays, marking a boost to the region's public EV charging infrastructure.
These ultra-rapid chargers can power a vehicle for up to 200 miles in just 30 minutes.
Located close to the M4, the facility is expected to attract EV users, offering them the opportunity to collect Nectar points while charging.
The charging bays are designed to be accessible for disabled customers and those with young children, as it includes additional space around and between the bays.
This new hub increases the total number of Sainsbury's Smart Charge locations across the UK to 59.
Sainsbury's Smart Charge brand was first launched at the start of 2024.
It is the first and only EV charging business to be fully owned and managed by a supermarket.
The brand now operates 481 ultra-rapid charging bays nationwide, regularly expanding its network with new hubs.
Smart Charge is also the first EV charging provider to offer customers Nectar loyalty benefits, allowing them to accrue points for use with their favourite brands.
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Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury's director of property, procurement, and EV ventures, explained the rationale behind the rollout.
He said: "We know that demand for speedy, reliable, and sustainable EV charging facilities in the UK continues to grow.
"That's why Sainsbury's is rolling out Smart Charge, our new best-in-class ultra-rapid charging service, at supermarkets up and down the country."
Mr Dunne expressed hope that the new Winnersh hub would offer added convenience and choice to EV drivers, allowing them to either top up or fully charge their vehicles at Berkshire's first location.
He added: "What's more, they can even grab a coffee or pick up some groceries while they're there, all while being rewarded for their charge by collecting Nectar points."
The service is designed to help advance the uptake of electric vehicles in the UK, and support the UK's transistion to a low-carbon economy.
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