30.7.2012 APT installs Midlands charging points

Pioneering electric vehicle charging points from APT Technologies have been installed at a £100 million technology park development in Longbridge, in response to the rapid growth of EV ownership in the Midlands.

The Innovation Centre, at Longbridge Technology Park, has been developed by regeneration specialists St Modwen and is home to nearly 50 technology-based local, national and international businesses.

Its new charging points from APT were officially launched at a recent event that was attended by tenants from across the park and presented by Ed Russell, Chief Executive of Co-operative Web – the Innovation Centre's very first occupant. During the event a Peugeot iOn electric hybrid car was available for test drive in order to demonstrate the Evolt charging points in action.

Justin Meyer, Business Development Manager for APT Technologies, says that the Innovation Centre is blazing a trail for a wider take-up of EV travel in this region: "The launch of these charging posts has put Longbridge firmly on the map as a hub for progressive technologies and services, and paves the way for a more sustainable future in the Midlands."

The Evolt charging posts are robust yet versatile units with dual charging outlets that are simple to access and use, featuring an intelligent tamper-proof opening mechanism. The units supply secure payment using contactless RFID proximity cards and each has a digital screen that displays information such as user ID, energy consumption and charging times and LED lighting to show charge point status.

Andrea Bolton, Property Manager at Longbridge Technology Park, says that the charging points are in keeping with the progressive ethos cultivated across the park: "The Innovation Centre specialises in providing modern accommodation for start-up and expanding technology-based businesses, and the introduction of these charging stations marks St Modwen's latest commitment to providing occupants with forward-thinking business solutions and services."

"St Modwen hopes that tenants of the park will take advantage of the opportunity to use a more renewable alternative to petrol and diesel-powered transport," she continues, "as the UK strives to develop more sustainable ways of living."

You can use Next Green Car's Zap-Map to see the locations of the new charging points.