Construction work starts on London Gatwick’s new electric forecourt

Construction work has started on a new garage of the future at London’s Gatwick Airport as it is being built to serve electric vehicles.

Tech-enable sustainable energy company, GRIDSERVE, chose today, World EV Day, to commence construction of the first of its kind facility at an airport.

Located on the Ring Road South approach to the airport’s South Terminal and adjacent to the M23, the new London Gatwick Electric Forecourt will be the first in the world to be hosted at an international airport serving the tens of millions of passengers as well as staff, taxis and local communities.

Once completed, it will enable 36 electric vehicles to be charged simultaneously, with high power chargers that can deliver up to 350kW, capable of adding 100 miles of range in less than 10 minutes.

Multiple charging connectors will cater for all types of electric vehicles with contactless payment accepted, making it easier than ever to charge. The site will also be supplied with 100% renewable net zero carbon energy generated by the company’s own hybrid solar farms.

While charging, visitors can enjoy a coffee, a comfortable waiting lounge with free super fast WiFi, convenience retail, children’s play area and a dedicated educational space to increase awareness around electric vehicles.

Gatwick’s chief commercial officer, Jonathan Pollard, enthused: “It’s fantastic to see construction of the UK’s first airport-based electric charging forecourt get underway at London Gatwick.

“The new facility, opening next year, will provide passengers, staff, local residents, businesses and commuters with an excellent, state-of-the-art service.

“It will also support London Gatwick’s sustainability targets, in line with VINCI Airports’ global environmental action plan to develop carbon-free energy for passengers and users – the first in the industry to be applied to a network of more than 50 airports in 11 countries.”

GRISDSERVE CEO, Toddington Harper, noted: “Whilst timelines have not been without their challenges, we are targeting delivery of Gatwick Electric Forecourt in summer 2023. Visitors will find an outstanding customer experience for those making electric journeys to and from one of the country’s most important transport destinations.”