Charging network Be.EV has launched an ultra-rapid charging hub at Hulme Retail Park in Manchester.
The site is the first to be funded through Be.EV’s £55 million debt financing partnership with banking firm NatWest and Germany’s project and export financier KfW IPEX-Bank, which was announced in 2024.
This new hub aims to mark another step in addressing the growing demand for public EV chargers in Greater Manchester, and across the UK.
In Manchester alone, an estimated 60% of households lack access to off-street parking, underscoring the critical need for accessible public charging infrastructure, it said.
More than one million new electric vehicles (EV) were registered in Greater Manchester between 2009 and 2023, representing around 10% of the UK’s total EVs.
Be.EV’s new charging hub is another step in the area’s ongoing renewal, enhancing the appeal of Hulme as a modern and sustainable community.
The Hulme Retail Park hub features six ultra-rapid charging bays, capable of delivering up to 165 miles of range in just a 20-minute stop. All chargers are powered by renewable energy supplied by Octopus Energy.
The investment will continue to support the national growth of Be.EV’s network, expected to hit a total of 1,600 charge points this year.
To celebrate the opening of the new hub, Be.EV is offering all drivers a 50% discounted charging rate during the site’s Welcome Week, from Monday, 10 February until 16 February.
Asif Ghafoor, CEO of Be.EV, said:
“This new site in the south of Manchester highlights the power of collaboration, with our deal with NatWest and KfW IPEX-Bank paving the way for the efficient expansion of ultra-rapid, reliable EV charging.
“This trailblazing partnership demonstrates how public sector vision, private expertise, and backing from national banks can make a real impact—accelerating the nationwide roll-out of EV infrastructure and bringing charging solutions to communities that need them most.”
Bruce Riley, Head of Energy Transition at NatWest, said:
“Developing a high quality, reliable network of charge points across the UK is central to encouraging the adoption of battery electric vehicles nationally that will help decarbonise the transport system. NatWest is delighted to play its part through financing these investments.”
Andreas Ufer, Member of the Management Board of KfW IPEX-Bank commented:
“We are glad to support Be.EV and thus help advance the e-mobility infrastructure in the UK. It is our mission to advance the mobility transition with our financings in Europe and worldwide and drive the change towards decarbonisation in our societies.”
Councillor Hans Mundry, Leader of Warrington Borough Council, stated:
“We fully support the continued rollout of EV charging facilities throughout the North West, and we’re delighted to welcome Be.EV as new tenants at the retail park.”
Image courtesy of Be.EV
