Urban Electric Network deploys prototype pop-up EV charging hub in Oxford

The UEone from British charging start-up Urban Electric Networks Ltd is the world’s first pop-up charge point that solves the problem of charging for the 50% of urban drivers that park on-street at night.

Deployed as fast charging hubs in residential streets and on-street public parking bays, the fully retractable UEone hubs will facilitate overnight smart charging of the biggest EV battery packs, whilst minimising the impact on the power grid and the urban streetscape.

A prototype 6-charger hub has been installed in Oxford where local residents will soon be able to trial the pop-up charge points, together with the Ohme intelligent EV charging system and free use of an electric car, operated by Co-wheels car club.

A £250,000 ($302,500) equity crowdfunding campaign has also been launched through Crowdcube, an online investment platform. The new funds will support a £3.8 million ($4.6 million) Innovate UK backed project to install up to 18 second generation ‘demonstrator' pop-up charging hubs comprising more than 100 charge points in Dundee and Plymouth, prior to a full commercial launch.

According to Innovate UK's Director of Clean Growth and Infrastructure, , the UEone “has the potential to be rolled out across the whole of the UK.”

“Pop-up charging hubs offer a scalable solution for more than 190 million on-street parking spaces in European cities alone, enabling those without off-street residential parking to switch to an EV. If you are one of the 8 million UK drivers that park your vehicle on your street at night, the convenience of charging there as well while you sleep is unbeatable - simply plug-in when you get home in the evening for a full charge in the morning,” said Co-Founder Olivier Freeling-Wilkinson.