Starbucks Joins InstaVolt at UK's Largest EV Charging Hub
Electric vehicle drivers travelling through Winchester in the UK will soon enjoy a premium coffee break while charging their cars, thanks to a landmark partnership between InstaVolt and Starbucks licensee Cobra Coffee. The collaboration will bring a Starbucks café to InstaVolt's new rapid-charge superhub.
A first for InstaVolt and Starbucks
The partnership marks a significant milestone for both InstaVolt and Cobra Coffee. Delvin Lane, CEO of InstaVolt, explains: "Our other superhubs are located at food and beverage locations or retail spaces, all of which have their facilities for customers to refresh and recharge before they get back on the road."
"This will be the first on-site refreshment partnership for InstaVolt at one of our superhubs. It will also be the first time Cobra Coffee, a Starbucks UK franchised business partner, has provided a Starbucks café at an EV superhub."
The Winchester superhub, which is due to open in spring 2025, will feature 44 accessible charging bays, including extra-long van bays and drive-through bays for vehicles towing trailers.
A premium experience for EV drivers
The Starbucks café enhances the overall experience for EV drivers, who can relax and recharge while their cars do the same. "We are delighted to work with globally recognised brands to offer our drivers a great charging experience," said Delvin.
Beyond premium coffee, the flagship site will provide a range of amenities, including a children's play area and 24/7 access to restrooms. "Families can enjoy a break while kids can stretch their legs in the play area. Everyone can recharge and be back on the road in no time," Delvin added.
Sustainability at the heart of the superhub
Mark Smith, Group CEO of Southern Co-op, the parent company of Cobra Coffee, highlighted the project's alignment with sustainability goals. "We're really excited to bring the Starbucks experience to the UK's largest rapid EV superhub, creating 14 new jobs and playing our part in decarbonising travel."
"Alongside access to renewable and fast charging, our site will be built to high environmental standards. Customers can recharge their cars and themselves with their favourite Starbucks beverages and food."
Strategically located for convenience
Strategically placed, the Winchester superhub caters to both local and long-distance travellers. Situated at the Three Maids Hill junction, just meters from the A34 and easily accessible from the M3, the site serves as a gateway to the UK's South West while connecting the South with the Midlands and beyond.
"This location is at the gateway to the South West," said Delvin. "It's also close to the busy A34, a major route connecting the South with the Midlands and beyond."
Supporting InstaVolt's ambitious growth
The Winchester superhub forms a key component of InstaVolt's ambitious plans to expand its charging network across the UK and Ireland. The company aims to install 11,000 ultra-rapid chargers, bolstering its position as the nation's largest rapid EV charging network.
"We are committed to supporting the growing numbers of EV drivers by providing charging sites at strategically placed locations on the road network, in rural and urban areas," said Delvin. "Superhubs like Three Maids Hill catapult InstaVolt to the next level."
EV charging reimagined
The partnership between InstaVolt and Starbucks via Cobra Coffee signals a new era for EV infrastructure, where charging stations become destinations in their own right. By combining ultra-rapid charging technology with premium amenities,
InstaVolt is not just catering to EV drivers' practical needs but enhancing their journey experience.
With the Winchester superhub set to open in 2025, the future of EV charging is shaping up to be as convenient and enjoyable as it is sustainable.
Explore the latest edition of EV Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Sustainability LIVE and Manufacturing LIVE
Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today
EV Magazine is a BizClik brand
