Roadchef and BP have entered into a major strategic agreement designed to speed up the rollout of ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging across Britain's motorway network, marking a significant step in the expansion of high-powered charging infrastructure for drivers.

Under the terms of the deal, Roadchef will take ownership of 12 forecourts currently owned by BP, while BP Pulse ultra-rapid charging stations will be installed across more than 30 Roadchef sites nationwide, with the rollout beginning in 2027.

The 12 newly acquired forecourts will retain their existing BP branding, with Roadchef continuing to sell BP fuels and Wildbean Café products at these locations, ensuring continuity for customers who use these sites.

In return, BP will grow its BP Pulse charging network across Roadchef's wider estate, supporting the motorway services operator's ambition to install 1,000 EV charging bays by 2030. The partnership is intended to give motorists greater access to fast, reliable charging as more drivers switch to electric vehicles, addressing concerns around range anxiety and charging availability on long-distance journeys.

Tim Gittins, chief executive of Roadchef, said the agreement would substantially expand high-powered charging provision across the company's service stations, underlining the scale of ambition behind the tie-up.

The deal represents one of the most significant collaborations yet between a motorway services operator and a major fuel and energy company in the UK, reflecting the pace at which the sector is adapting to the shift towards electric mobility. As the government continues to push for widespread EV adoption ahead of the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, infrastructure providers have faced mounting pressure to ensure charging networks keep up with demand, particularly along major routes used for longer journeys.

By combining BP's expertise in ultra-rapid charging technology through its Pulse brand with Roadchef's extensive network of motorway service stations, the two companies aim to close gaps in charging provision and offer drivers a smoother, faster experience when topping up their vehicles. The agreement also allows both firms to expand their respective footprints, with Roadchef adding new forecourt locations to its portfolio while BP secures a broader platform for its charging technology.

Further details on the exact locations of the 30-plus sites earmarked for ultra-rapid charging, as well as the specific forecourts changing hands, are expected to be confirmed as the rollout progresses towards its 2027 start date.

Source: Fleet World

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