Kia Motors UK has announced that Pod Point has become its official homecharge provider, as part of a new two-year partnership.

As part of the arrangement, Pod Point will install smart charging units for the car maker’s customers throughout the UK.

The new partnership was announced as the automotive manufacturer launched its 64kWh Kia e-Niro, which has received a raft of plaudits, including the title of Car of the Year 2019.

Kia Motors’ general manager planning and programmes Helen Mutter said: “As a brand we want to ensure that our plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle customers have access to the best homecharging solution to maximise the enjoyment of their car.

“Pod Point impressed us with the quality of smart homechargers and the team’s commitment to excellent customer service. We’re looking forward to working with them as we roll out one of the most ambitious electrification strategies in the industry.”

All of Pod Point’s current range of homechargers are smart as standard,  ahead of July 2019 when only smart chargers will be eligible for the Office of Low Emission Vehicle’s (OLEV) homecharge grant.

Pod Point’s chief executive and founder Erik Fairbairn said: “Kia Motors have announced some of the most exciting mass market EVs that we’re due to see launched in 2019 and we’re delighted to be providing homecharge solutions for their customers.”