Electric vehicle charging hubs to increase across the uk by 2030

Britain’s largest independent petrol station operator, Motor Fuel Group (MFG), has announced ambitious plans to expand its ultrarapid electric vehicle (EV) charging network. The company aims to install charging hubs at 500 sites across the UK by 2030, underpinned by a £400 million investment programme. This will increase its total number of charging bays to 3,000, up from the current 1,000 bays at 170 hubs.

The expansion comes despite challenges in securing electricity grid connections, a key obstacle for large-scale charging infrastructure projects. MFG currently owns and operates approximately 1,200 garage sites under brands including BP, Shell, Esso, and Morrisons. Chief Executive William Bannister emphasised that MFG’s ownership of 90 per cent of its assets provides a competitive edge, allowing long-term investment in infrastructure without the need to lease land or pay rents like many competitors.

The rollout is being achieved at a steady pace, with one new charging hub being added weekly. Each hub is designed to include six to eight charging bays, supported by ultrarapid charging technology capable of serving multiple vehicles efficiently. According to Bannister, the company has adopted a strategic approach by submitting grid connection applications for hundreds of sites at a time. This flexibility enables the continuation of projects even if some applications face delays.

Nationally, the uptake of ultrarapid EV chargers has been accelerating, with an estimated 8,619 devices offering 150kW or higher charging speeds as of the end of last month. Bannister noted that MFG’s rapid expansion will soon make it the largest ultrarapid charge point operator in the UK. The company’s investment strategy is focused on ensuring sufficient infrastructure to meet the growing demand for EVs.

MFG’s ownership by Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R), an American private equity firm, has played a significant role in its growth. CD&R is reportedly exploring the sale of a minority stake in the company, although Bannister stressed this would not affect operations. He highlighted CD&R’s ongoing commitment to the business and described it as one of the firm’s most successful investments to date.

With EV adoption increasing and the focus shifting towards sustainability, MFG’s strategy places it at the forefront of Britain’s electric vehicle infrastructure expansion. The £400 million investment signals confidence in the long-term shift to cleaner transportation solutions and highlights the importance of private sector involvement in achieving net-zero goals.