Driving Toward A Sustainable Future: The Universal EV Foundation
Written By Chris Rimell
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more mainstream, reliable and accessible charging infrastructure is needed.
Around 37,000 public chargers are currently available throughout the UK, and an estimated 350,000-700,000 public chargers will be needed by 2030 with the increased demand for rapid (above 22Kw up to 150Kw) and ultra-rapid charging (above 150Kw output). However, installing EV charging stations can be challenging, time-consuming and expensive, especially when upgrading existing charging locations.
Traditional installation methods
The NAL EV Foundation solution has gained traction in recent years supporting main CPOs (Charge Point Operators) and Manufacturers with a standardised installation approach that futureproofs the charger installation. NAL EV infrastructure solutions offer several benefits over traditional installation methods, allowing sites to be upgraded in the future without the cost of secondary civils work.
NAL EV infrastructure allows a contractor to land any charger, irrespective of manufacture, maintain and upgrade the site without the need for secondary excavations or other disruptive construction work typically required with traditional charging station installation methods. Here are some of the benefits of NAL EV infrastructure:
Cost-Effective
One of the most significant benefits of NAL EV infrastructure is that it is cost-effective. Traditional EV charging station installation methods require excavation, trenching, and other construction work, which can be costly and time-consuming. On the other hand, NAL EV infrastructure requires minimal construction work, reducing installation costs. This makes it an attractive option for CPOs, Land managers, Local Authorities and other organisations looking to install EV charging infrastructure.
Easy Installation
NAL EV infrastructure is easy to install. The EV infrastructure is designed to be modular, reducing installation time, costs and CO2 impact on the project. NAL EV Solutions can also be installed and made safe to foot traffic before landing any charging infrastructure. This allows contractors to complete civils work and futureproof sites by installing foundation solutions where power may need to be expanded or charger utilisation increases.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Traditional EV charging station installation methods require deep excavations, spoil removal and other heavy construction work, including shuttering, which can have a significant environmental impact. NAL EV infrastructure requires minimal construction work, which reduces the environmental impact. Additionally, the modular design of NAL EV infrastructure means that it can be installed quickly with reduced need for concrete, reducing the environmental impact.
NAL Universal EV Foundations
Increased Safety
NAL EV infrastructure provides more health and safety benefits than traditional installation methods. The modular system does not require heavy lifting equipment, heavy tooling or specialist transport methods reducing the risk of site-based injury and other accidents. Additionally, the reduction in excavation, concrete pour and other construction work means less chance of damage to underground utilities, such as telecoms, gas and water lines.
Improved Aesthetics
Traditional EV charging station installation methods can be unsightly and detract from the surrounding area's aesthetics by introducing raised concrete plinths and exposed footprints. On the other hand, NAL EV infrastructure is designed to be visually appealing and minimises the footprint; it can blend in seamlessly with the ground area and is made safe by adding pedestrian caps. Additionally, the lack of excavation and other construction work means less disruption to the surrounding area, and there is no need to leave exposed ducting or excavations, further improving aesthetics.
Scalability
NAL EV infrastructure is designed to be scalable, which means it can be easily expanded or reduced depending on the demand for EV charging. This is particularly useful for businesses and CPOs that may need to increase or decrease the number of charging stations depending on the demand for EV charging.
In conclusion, NAL EV infrastructure offers several benefits over traditional installation methods, including cost-effectiveness, easy installation, enhanced user experience, reduced environmental impact, increased safety, improved aesthetics, and scalability. As the demand for EV charging infrastructure continues to grow, NAL EV infrastructure is becoming an increasingly popular option for businesses, municipalities, and Local Authorities.
To find out more information on our EV Solutions, please get in touch with Chris Rimell at crimell@nal.ltd.uk
