Believ buys SMS Public EV Charging to speed up rollout

Believ, the charge point operator, has made an exciting move by acquiring Smart Metering Systems’ (SMS Plc) public EV charging business and all associated assets. This strategic acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, is set to shake up the EV charging industry.

In this groundbreaking deal, Eugenio Herrero Galdon, managing director of Public EV Charging Infrastructure at SMS Plc, stands alongside Guy Bartlett, the CEO of Believ.

The integration of SMS EV Charging business into the Believ brand marks a significant turning point, as SMS’s current EV charging brand will be phased out. This collaboration is expected to expedite the public EV charging rollout by capitalizing on SMS’s expertise in low-carbon energy infrastructure, metering, power network design, and energy services. Believ, on the other hand, brings to the table its proven capabilities in EV charging, encompassing network deployment, operation, maintenance, and communication networking through its partnership with Virgin Media O2.

With a strong national presence and established relationships with landowners in sectors like retail, hospitality, and parking, SMS’s footprint will enhance Believ’s EV charging offerings. Believ, supported by Liberty Global and Zouk Capital, currently operates a thriving network of nearly 1,700 charge points spread over 547 locations in the UK, all powered by 100% renewable energy.

Tim Mortlock, CEO at SMS, expressed confidence in the alliance, stating, “Believ’s robust financial backing positions it as a reliable, long-term partner capable of delivering stability to all stakeholders. Their extensive experience in specialist EV charging, evident through their reliable network, aligns perfectly with our goals. Joining forces with Believd will enable us to offer enhanced services to customers across the market spectrum.”

As part of this partnership, 10 SMS employees will join the Believ team to ensure a seamless transition for existing and potential customers. SMS will continue to provide metering, delivery, and energy services, while Believ plans to establish new offices in Wales and Scotland as it expands its presence across the UK.

Guy Bartlett, CEO of Believ, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a game-changer as it combines the expertise needed to accelerate the deployment of the UK’s EV infrastructure. Our collective abilities put us in a prime position to deliver top-tier EV charging infrastructure, meeting the highest standards.

“For prospective EV drivers, the availability of convenient, reliable charge points is crucial to encourage the transition. With this partnership, we are well-equipped to meet these demands and provide an unparalleled charging experience.”