Milence Launches First Public EV Charging Hub in the UK

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In an exciting development for the UK’s transition to sustainable transport, a groundbreaking partnership has borne fruit with the launch of the first public electric truck charging hub by Milence, a collaborative venture between industry heavyweights Daimler Truck, TRATON GROUP, and Volvo Group. Located in Immingham, this new hub is set to revolutionise the logistics landscape while reinforcing the UK’s commitment to its net zero ambitions.

Strategically positioned on the A180, with seamless access to the M180, M18, and M1 motorways, the Immingham hub is ideally situated to support the essential transport and logistics operations that connect the UK to Europe. This location is not just convenient; it is crucial for the UK’s trade links, facilitating over 30 roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) and lift-on/lift-off (Lo-Lo) sailings each week to Northern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Baltic regions. This hub will play a pivotal role in ensuring that the transport corridors remain efficient and environmentally friendly, aligning with the broader goals of the net zero movement.

Phase one of the Immingham hub features an impressive array of four high-performance CCS (Combined Charging System) chargers. These chargers provide access to eight dedicated charging bays, boasting a remarkable power output of up to 400kW. This robust infrastructure is designed not only to meet the needs of electric trucks but also to enhance the overall experience for drivers, ensuring they have the facilities necessary for a comfortable and safe break during their journeys.

Driver comfort and safety are paramount at the Immingham hub. The site is equipped with secure, fenced parking, controlled access, and comprehensive camera surveillance, creating a safe environment for truck operators. Moreover, essential amenities such as restrooms and vending machines have been thoughtfully incorporated to ensure that drivers can recharge themselves as well as their vehicles. This holistic approach reflects Milence’s commitment to not just the vehicles of the future, but also the people who operate them.

Milence has set its sights high, with ambitions to build the largest electric truck charging network in Europe. The Immingham hub is just the beginning of this ambitious journey in the UK. With a goal of establishing at least 1,700 high-performance charging points across Europe and the UK by 2027, Milence is laying the groundwork for a sustainable transport ecosystem. Future developments at the Immingham site will include the installation of MSC (Megawatt Charging) chargers in the forthcoming phase, further expanding the capabilities of this vital hub.

Transparency in pricing is a cornerstone of Milence’s operational philosophy. Each charging point clearly displays the default tariff of £0.399 per kWh (excluding VAT), ensuring that users are fully informed about the costs associated with charging their electric vehicles. This commitment to clarity is essential in building trust within the electric transport community, encouraging more operators to make the switch to electric.

But it doesn’t stop there. Milence is dedicated to sustainability not only in the use of electricity but also in the construction of its hubs. All charging stations utilise 100% green energy, and the construction practices employed prioritise CO2 reduction. Innovative materials, such as concrete solutions designed for longevity, are employed to ensure a 30-year lifespan with minimal environmental impact. This holistic approach to sustainability showcases Milence’s commitment to the planet and aligns perfectly with the ethos of the net zero movement.

In a statement reflecting on this landmark opening, Anja van Niersen, CEO of Milence, emphasised the significance of this development: “The opening of our first UK charge hub in Immingham marks a significant step in the UK’s transition to electric road transport. This strategically located site underscores our commitment to providing reliable and accessible charging infrastructure for the growing number of electric truck operators.”

She further elaborated, “This is just the first step in our UK expansion, and we are dedicated to working with all stakeholders to accelerate the shift towards a sustainable future for the transport industry.” This commitment to collaboration highlights Milence’s understanding that transitioning to electric transport requires a concerted effort from all sectors of the industry, including policymakers, logistics companies, and drivers themselves.

The establishment of the Milence hub in Immingham is more than just an infrastructural achievement; it represents a fundamental shift in how we think about transport and logistics in the UK. As we strive towards net zero emissions, the significance of such developments cannot be overstated. The future of transport is electric, and Milence is at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that the infrastructure is in place to support the growing fleet of electric vehicles on our roads.

As we look ahead, the journey towards a sustainable transport network is filled with opportunities and challenges alike. The efforts of Milence and its partners provide a promising glimpse into what the future holds. With the right infrastructure, support, and commitment, we can envision a transport landscape that not only meets the needs of today but also protects the planet for future generations.

In conclusion, the launch of the Milence charging hub is a monumental step towards realising the vision of net zero in the transport sector. It is a clear signal to the industry that the future is electric, and it is a future that is being built today. As more charging hubs like this one emerge across the UK and Europe, we can expect to see a significant acceleration in the adoption of electric trucks, paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.

Stay tuned to the Net Zero News Network for more updates on sustainable transport initiatives and innovations that are shaping our path towards a net zero future. Together, we can drive the change needed to create a more sustainable world.