SWARCO eVolt to operate Scots charging network

Charging and service support firm SWARCO eVolt has been named the preferred bidder to operate the ChargePlace Scotland network.

The contract to run Scotland’s public electric vehicle charging network is estimated to be worth up to £1.2 million and will be expected to run for a minimum of 2 years with the option to extend.

From July 2021, SWARCO eVolt will take over from Charge Your Car as the back office operator of more than 1600 public charge points across Scotland.

The firm will continue to improve the network and accessibility across Scotland with the new contract aiming for better performance information for users and owners and hosts. There will also be exploration of innovative new capabilities, such as interoperability and pay-as-you-go options. 

Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “The development of EV infrastructure in our communities brings economic benefits right across Scotland – and it’s good to see that this contract with SWARCO will bring new jobs to Dundee at the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc – Scotland’s hub for net-zero innovation.

“We remain focussed on accelerating the provision of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and ensuring that Scotland is at the forefront of markets for zero emission mobility – both through public and increasingly private routes. But key to the uptake of electric vehicles is reliable charging infrastructure that people can count on. I’m confident that SWARCO eVolt will meet our vision for the ChargePlace Scotland network over the coming years.”

Justin Meyer, managing director for SWARCO eVolt said: “SWARCO’s key focus will be on service delivery and maximum uptime. EV drivers will need to have total confidence in the network to keep them on the road, and it is with this in mind that we will be developing the gold standard in service for the driver community.

“The Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc, set up as a location for companies that are leading the way in sustainable mobility and decarbonisation, is the perfect location for our new offices, and we look forward to providing more employment opportunities for local communities.”

  • image courtesy of Swarco eVolt

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