Osprey leads charge on Investec deal.

Osprey Charging, a London-based company specialising in electric vehicle (EV) rapid charging, has received a substantial capital investment from Investec, which will allow the business to reach its network target of 1,500 rapid chargers across the UK.

Osprey Charging’s innovative and market-leading technology can charge a car in less than 30 minutes, which will fall to 10 minutes with the introduction of ultra-rapid chargers. Current rapid chargers are up to 16 times faster than standard points, helping to make EVs more practical for UK drivers.

The demand for EVs has grown considerably in recent years, with over 135,000 registered in the UK (January 2018, SMMT). However, the supporting rapid infrastructure has been growing at a slower rate than EV ownership since 2015, resulting in concerns for its ability to enable ongoing, increasing uptake. As manufacturers develop vehicles with larger batteries and longer range, rapid charging points will become critical to meet consumer demand.

The Government has also provided greater support for ultra-low emission vehicles with the creation of Clean Air Zones and a new £400m Charging Investment Infrastructure Fund, as well as the continuation of funding for the Plug-In Car Grant.

Osprey Charging will lead the way in enabling clean transport and is partnering with commercial property owners and local authorities to develop a network of rapid, reliable charge points strategically located throughout major centres and trunk routes. Locations will include retail parks, supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, petrol stations, commercial developments and on-street charging.

Osprey Charging rapid and ultra-rapid charging stations are free for landlords, with no reliance on Government subsidies. Osprey Charging will charge drivers a straightforward per-kWh charging rate, which covers the infrastructure and ongoing costs.

A focus on efficiency and a positive user experience underpins Osprey Charging’s approach, with consumers able to pay via contactless credit/debit card or Apple Pay, which also offers in-built financial security features. Osprey Charging chargers have received unanimously positive feedback from customers.

Osprey Charging gives commercial landlords the opportunity to offer their customers fast, reliable charging, helping to attract customers. It also helps local authorities needing to make a commitment towards carbon reduction and fleet owners seeking to transition to alternative fuelled vehicles.

Investec’s investment will allow Osprey Charging to invest further in developing and installing the latest technology, including the introduction of its ultra-rapid charging points in the future.