As the UK grapples with a significant shortfall in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, a new player in the industry, Zapgo, is stepping up to address this pressing issue. With over 90% of city hotels lacking EV charging facilities, according to research from Drax EV, Zapgo is focusing its efforts on supporting the hospitality sector, offering a lifeline to hotel owners eager to bridge this gap.
Recent government research has highlighted a stark disparity in the distribution of EV charging points across the UK, particularly outside of London. Northern England, for example, has 50% fewer charging points compared to other regions, making it especially challenging for travellers, those embarking on longer trips, or individuals planning social activities. With only 6% of city hotels currently equipped with EV chargers, there is a clear and urgent need for expanded infrastructure.
Zapgo’s CEO, Steve Leighton, is at the forefront of this initiative. Known for his commitment to supporting underserved communities, Leighton previously led Voneus, a company that brought internet connectivity to remote areas. Now, he’s applying his expertise to Zapgo’s mission of making EV charging more accessible, particularly in areas that have been overlooked.
“At Zapgo, we’re offering to partner with hotels to bring an innovative solution that not only supports the environment but also creates a sustainable revenue stream for hotels,” said Leighton. “Our state-of-the-art EV charging points can transform hotel car parks, which are often non-revenue generating, into a new source of income. And with no upfront investment required, hotel owners can start benefiting from day one.”
Zapgo’s approach is designed to be as beneficial for hotel owners as it is for the environment. The company’s reliable, rapid charging stations not only help hotels attract more customers – particularly those driving EVs on longer journeys – but also provide a significant opportunity to increase footfall without financial risk. The revenue-sharing model ensures that hotel owners see immediate returns, making it a win-win scenario.
Leighton concluded, “With our expertise in EV charging and our dedication to communities underserved by infrastructure, we are confident that Zapgo will help drive sustainable growth and foster a brighter, greener future for all.”
Zapgo’s initiative comes at a critical time for the UK, as the push towards sustainable travel continues to gain momentum. By partnering with hotels, Zapgo is not only helping to fill a vital gap in the country’s EV charging infrastructure but also empowering businesses to contribute to a greener future while boosting their bottom line.
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