First EV rapid chargers for Birmingham

Birmingham City Council is looking to support the transition to electric vehicles with the installation of the area’s first rapid EV chargers. 

Park and Ride stations in the city will be fitted with the charge points with the first chosen location being Selly Oak station in collaboration with Transport for West Midlands.

Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street explained that support for the right infrastructure is key to encourage people to move to EVs, he said: ‘That’s why I’m pleased to see Transport for West Midlands working with Birmingham City Council to help establish a rapid charging facility at the Selly Oak Park & Ride site. 

“We have plans to vastly improve the availability of chargers right across our region and are actively identifying locations for 10 electric vehicle ‘filling stations’ that will provide ultra-rapid charging for cars and larger vehicles – all part of our green transport revolution.’ 

Birmingham’s programme is part-funded through the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles and will be delivered by energy company ESB. 

The rapid chargers will be capable of fully charging an electric vehicle in just 30 minutes, they can also be used for a 5-10 minutes top up. 

Cllr Liz Clements is the Cabinet Member for Transport, she said: ‘Being able to charge your car in such a short space of time will make journeys in electric cars so much easier. This is great work from all involved.’ 

‘This is a great step forward in our bid to reach zero emissions in Birmingham. Not only will it help people change over to electric vehicles, the location means they can then get straight onto the rail network.’ She added. 

The UK government has also been supporting the rollout of EV chargers this year with the expansion of the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Pilot which supported a number of locations including the West Midlands.

Photo by Birmingham City Council