Chargemaster has won the contract to set up and operate the EV Experience Centre, the UK’s first-ever shopping centre multi-brand showroom.

Milton Keynes was awarded £9 million Go Ultra Low Cities funding in January 2016 to encourage the uptake of low emission vehicles and hit the target of 23% of all car sales being electric or plug-in by 2021.

The project is due to launch in Spring 2017 and will be situated within the city’s premier shopping centre.

The new project will help residents understand the true potential of EV ownership. As well as showcasing the latest EVs and exciting technology, independent staff will be on hand to answer visitors’ questions and refer them to relevant local dealerships or partner leasing companies. As an added bonus, Milton Keynes residents and businesses will also be able to test drive a range of vehicles on a short- or long-term basis.

Other initiatives in the Go Ultra Low Cities programme include a £2.3m investment into additional Milton Keynes charging infrastructure. This will see Chargemaster supply its latest charging infrastructure to set up two filling-station-style EV rapid charging hubs and 50 destination chargers across the town.

The introduction of free parking for ultra-low emission vehicles, as well trialling the latest developments in technology such as inductive charging, are among other projects aimed at boosting EV uptake.

Brian Matthews, head of transport Innovation at Milton Keynes, said: “Our commitment to making Milton Keynes a go-to destination and flagship Go Ultra Low city starts with our residents.

“We’re delighted to be working with Chargemaster on this project, and are confident that the team is best placed to champion the EV sector, considering their knowledge and experience of the industry.”

David Martell, Chargemaster CEO, said: “Being part of such a high-profile and diverse project is very exciting for Chargemaster. The centre will be the first of its kind and we are sure it will pave the way for other cities to follow.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Milton Keynes shoppers and showing them everything that going green has to offer.”

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