In response to the increase in demand for electric vehicle (EV) charging points from businesses, organisations, and homeowners, established Essex-based electrical and mechanical engineering group, Gibbons, has launched Plug&Drive. This new division aims to expand the EV charger network across East Anglia, the South East, and London making it easy and efficient to purchase, install, and manage EV chargers.
Plug&Drive has partnered with ABB to sell and install its top-of-the-range Terra AC Wallbox Electric Vehicle chargers, however, it has also recently launched the first in its own range of charge points. Compatible with all electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) models, the Plug&Drive 7.4kW EV Charge Point is a cost-effective, easy to use, and simple to set up charge point that provides customers with everything they need to charge their EV at home or work. It comes with three RFID (Radio Frequency Identity Cards) cards, perfect for guests or for use without the app, and when using public charging stations.
Matthew Gibbons, Director, Plug&Drive commented: “Electric vehicles have seen a real boom in popularity in recent years with the latest developments in technology making them easily accessible to a wider eco-conscious market. With the manufacturing of petrol and diesel cars being phased out in the UK by 2030, the world of electric vehicles is set to expand rapidly.
“Plug&Drive was born out of a desire to support this switch to EVs, helping those who might just need one charge point to those who require multiple chargers across multiple sites to meet environmental objectives and employee demand.”
OZEV grants
Plug&Drive is an Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grant-approved installer meaning that business owners can claim a government grant worth £350 per socket. Plug&Drive is able to apply for the grant on behalf of its business customers to reduce their administrative burden.
Management of EV charge points
Plug&Drive has partnered with Fuuse to simplify payment processes for EV drivers, as well as create a user-friendly system so businesses can track and manage the use of their EV chargers. The platform aggregates all brands of EV chargers, so businesses can see information in one interface rather than needing to log in to multiple brands’ management systems.
Plug&Drive will offer training and maintenance of the management system and charge points as well as providing advice about maximising performance.
Matthew Gibbons continued: “We know that some users are hesitant to switch to EVs because of concerns about cost but our range of electric vehicle charge points has smart charging technology which means they can be confident in the fact the charge points make the most of lower tariffs and utilise a greater amount of green energy.
“Offering electric vehicle charging is not only a massive perk for employees but it also demonstrates a business’s commitment to making positive changes for the future of our planet. We want to help as many organisations and individuals as possible make this important switch.”
