Wallbox & Believ Expand Fast-Charging in the UK
Wallbox, a global leader in electric vehicle (EV) charging and energy management solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Believ, an established charge point operator (CPO) specializing in electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This collaboration is set to significantly expand the availability of rapid and ultra-rapid charging solutions across the United Kingdom, addressing the growing need for convenient and high-powered charging stations as EV adoption continues to rise.
The Need for Rapid Charging Infrastructure in the UK
The UK is experiencing a significant shift towards electric mobility, driven by government policies and consumer demand for sustainable transportation. With the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales set to take effect by 2035, the need for reliable and widespread EV charging infrastructure has never been more urgent. Many potential EV owners cite charging accessibility as one of their primary concerns when considering the switch from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Recognizing this challenge, Wallbox and Believ have joined forces to roll out a comprehensive range of fast and ultra-fast charging solutions across the UK. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and supporting a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
Wallbox’s Advanced Charging Solutions
Wallbox’s DC fast charging portfolio includes an array of powerful chargers designed to cater to different site needs and driver expectations. The strategic partnership with Believ will introduce multiple charging solutions, including:
- Supernova 60kW – Ideal for urban locations and sites with moderate traffic.
- Supernova 120kW – A high-power option suitable for retail hubs and city centers.
- Supernova 150kW – Designed for major travel routes and high-traffic areas.
- Supernova 220kW – Ultra-rapid charging for highway rest stops, logistics hubs, and key transport corridors.
These chargers are specifically engineered to provide efficient, high-speed charging, ensuring that EV drivers can recharge their vehicles quickly while on the go. Wallbox’s advanced technology enables scalability, meaning that the infrastructure can be expanded as demand increases.
The Role of Believ in Charging Network Expansion
Believ, backed by Liberty Global and Zouk Capital, plays a crucial role in this partnership. As a CPO with extensive experience in deploying and managing EV charge points, Believ will oversee the installation and operation of Wallbox’s charging technology. The company is committed to enhancing the UK’s public charging network by ensuring that charge points are accessible, reliable, and strategically placed to support drivers’ daily needs.
“Our goal is to deliver robust charging infrastructure that not only serves existing EV drivers but also encourages more people to transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles,” said Guy Bartlett, Chief Executive Officer at Believ. “Drivers need to see charging technology working effectively at locations that serve their regular journeys, whether it’s along highways, at their favorite shopping destinations, or near workplaces. Critical to this is ensuring that charge point operators (CPOs) provide the full range of charging speeds depending on site needs and driver dwell times.”
Believ’s involvement in the partnership is crucial, as the company manages part of the UK Treasury-backed Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund (CIIF), aimed at accelerating the expansion of EV charging networks nationwide. With the financial backing and expertise of both Believ and its investment partners, the rollout of Wallbox’s chargers is expected to be both efficient and widespread.
Strategic Locations for the Charging Rollout
One of the primary objectives of this initiative is to place charging stations in high-traffic areas where drivers typically spend less time but require a fast and reliable charging solution. The partnership is focusing on key locations such as:
- Motorway service stations – High-speed chargers along travel corridors to facilitate long-distance EV journeys.
- Retail parks and shopping centers – Providing charging options while customers shop, ensuring efficient use of their time.
- Urban hubs and business districts – Supporting commercial fleets and city drivers with convenient access to fast charging.
- Hospitality venues – Hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops that attract visitors who may need a quick top-up while dining or taking a break.
The first milestone of the partnership has already been achieved with an initial installation in Scotland, marking the start of a broader, nationwide rollout. This initial deployment provides valuable insights into real-world charger utilization and site-specific demand, which will guide the next phases of expansion.
Supporting the UK’s Net-Zero Goals
The UK government has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and transport is one of the key sectors where significant reductions are required. Road transport contributes to nearly 30% of total UK emissions, with passenger vehicles accounting for a large share of this. Expanding access to fast and ultra-fast EV charging is essential for reducing reliance on fossil fuel-powered cars and accelerating the shift towards cleaner alternatives.
“Partnering with Believ allows us to bring our high-performance charging technology to more drivers across the UK, ensuring they have access to fast, reliable charging where they need it most,” said Douglas Alfaro, Chief Fast Charging Officer at Wallbox. “With our scalable solutions, we’re not only addressing today’s charging needs but also supporting the UK’s transition to an electrified future.”
By providing robust, high-speed charging options, the Wallbox-Believ partnership directly supports the UK’s electrification goals and complements other initiatives such as government-backed incentives for EV adoption and infrastructure funding programs.
Addressing Common Challenges in EV Charging Infrastructure
While the expansion of charging infrastructure is a positive development, there are still challenges that must be addressed to ensure widespread EV adoption:
- Charger Availability – One of the biggest concerns for EV drivers is finding a working charger when needed. This partnership aims to deploy chargers in areas with high demand to reduce wait times and improve accessibility.
- Reliability and Maintenance – Charge points must be operational at all times. Believ’s expertise in network management will ensure that deployed chargers are well-maintained and function efficiently.
- Grid Capacity and Energy Management – High-powered charging requires significant electricity supply. Wallbox’s technology includes smart energy management features that optimize grid usage and reduce peak load stress.
- User Experience – Simplifying the payment process and ensuring compatibility with different EV models will be a key focus to enhance the overall customer experience.
Future Prospects and Expansion Plans
As EV adoption continues to grow, partnerships like this one between Wallbox and Believ will play a critical role in shaping the future of the UK’s charging infrastructure. Both companies are committed to expanding their footprint beyond the initial rollout phase, with long-term plans to:
- Increase the number of charging stations in under-served regions, including rural areas.
- Implement innovative technologies such as bidirectional charging and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) capabilities.
- Work with local councils and private businesses to identify optimal locations for new installations.
- Collaborate with policymakers to advocate for streamlined permitting processes and incentives for charging infrastructure investment.
With continued investment, technological advancements, and strategic partnerships, the UK is on track to build one of the most comprehensive and reliable EV charging networks in Europe.
