Costa Coffee unveils rapid EV charge point deal

Costa Coffee has agreed a partnership with InstaVolt to install rapid electric vehicle (EV) chargers at up to 200 of its UK drive-thru sites.

The deal, which will build on Costa’s existing network of 176 charge points, will see the installation of devices which can deliver charging speeds of up to 120kW at new and existing coffee stores.

InstaVolt’s ‘open charger’ model does not require a subscription and enables anyone who visits a participating Costa site to use its charging points on a pay-as-you-go basis. The company says this boosts the visibility and ease of charging, often seen as stumbling blocks to the wider adoption of EVs.

InstaVolt chief executive, Adrian Keen, said: “We are on a mission to offer InstaVolt rapid chargers across easily accessible and popular locations throughout the country. This partnership with Costa Coffee will further support in the ever-increasing drive towards EV adoption across the UK.

“One of the biggest barriers to customers making the switch to green clean vehicles is often a perceived lack of public car charge points.

“We are proud to be partnering with such a well known and loved brand to build out the charging network and deliver industry leading charging technology to brand new locations.”

Costa Coffee UK and Ireland’s property director, James Hamilton, said: “As we continue to safely re-open our stores and deliver our ambitious UK and Ireland growth plans, we are proud to partner with InstaVolt to embed charge points across multiple drive-thru locations, contributing to the UK’s ever-growing EV charging infrastructure.

“It’s exciting that in the time it takes for our consumers to order and enjoy their favourite Costa coffee, they can add an extra 100 miles in range and help our country reach its net-zero ambition.”