Hundreds of new rapid charge points are to be installed across the UK following a partnership between InstaVolt and the world’s largest electric vehicle (EV) charging network.

The Basingstoke-based firm has signed a contract with ChargePoint, the American company which recently expanded into European markets, to purchase more than 200 rapid charge systems.

There are more than 90,000 EVs on the road today but this could reach 1.2 million by 2020, according to the Department for Transport.

However, drivers are concerned there are not enough charging points on British roads.

In response, ChargePoint’s Express Plus solutions will be installed by InstaVolt close to popular routes, enabling drivers to easily charge their vehicles during long journeys.

‘InstaVolt has raised millions to install a DC rapid charge network country-wide across the UK,’ said Simon Lonsdale, vice president, business development, ChargePoint, Inc.

‘We are two companies that are committed to e-mobility in Europe, accelerating the driving revolution by making e-mobility a part of everyday life.'

Tim Payne, CEO at InstaVolt, said: ‘We are delighted to partner with ChargePoint to deliver a best in class EV charging infrastructure. We own, install and maintain rapid electric vehicle charging units all over the country, giving landowners the opportunity to earn a rental income by housing them, and giving EV drivers access to the fastest charging available.

‘ChargePoint will fulfil two important criteria for us: the charging units are future-proofed so the units can be configured to meet the precise requirements of any site and can be scaled incrementally as demand for higher rate charging increases.

‘This is particularly important as EV manufacturers begin to bring out new models with increased battery capacity. We are also committed to making sure the units are working 24/7 and so the reliability of the ChargePoint solution is one of the cornerstones of our offer.’