CHARGEPOINT Services and East Hampshire District Council have joined forces to provide electric vehicle drivers with rapid charging facilities at one of Hampshire’s major motoring service station.

A GeniePoint rapid charger has been installed on the northbound side at Liphook (North) just south of the A3 Hindhead tunnel.

It will provide vital recharging to drivers heading from the South Coast towards London and the M25.

The state-of-the-art, tri-connector can charge all vehicle types in as little as 20 minutes.

Both plug-in hybrid and pure electric vehicles (EV) can charge simultaneously - leaving just enough time for drivers to take a break or purchase refreshments in the Starbucks on site.

ChargePoint Services’ managing director Alex Bamberg said: “The installation of a GeniePoint rapid charger will make a fundamental difference to drivers using the A3.

“Being the only rapid charger on this road, it will provide a critical service and link from the South Coast to London, opening up the road to all electric vehicle commuters, delivery drivers, taxi and fleet vehicles.” 

The charger becomes part of the GeniePoint network which is the fastest expanding, reliable rapid-charging network across the UK.

It is easy to use and drivers can access the charger via mobile web app or RFID card.

It is the largest network in Hampshire with chargers across, Fareham, Winchester, Romsey, Ringwood and Thruxton as well as Newport on the Isle of Wight. 

Bramshott and Liphook councillor Angela Glass, portfolio holder for planning, said: “East Hampshire District Council promotes sustainable transport, including the switch to electric vehicles. 

“The council’s energy strategy promotes a low-carbon, economically vibrant future, and I am delighted with the commissioning of a 48kW charger for our site on the A3. 

"The specification is aimed at future proofing the EV charging network in East Hampshire.

“EV users will find chargers in convenient locations across the district as the network grows, and this will help more people to switch to electric vehicles.

“Residents, visitors and businesses will all benefit as a result.”