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The Electric Forecourt® is the new generation of filling station conceived out of extensive research undertaken by Arup’s architects in collaboration with GRIDSERVE, into the limitations and frustrations with existing charging infrastructure.
Servicing the public as well as fleet vehicle operators, our design will offer reliable, ultra-rapid EV charging supported by a range of ancillary services, mitigating range and charge anxiety and providing a unique user experience never seen before.
Through the provision of state-of-the-art, sustainable, new electric charging infrastructure across the UK, the Electric Forecourt® will help the country de-carbonise whilst also providing a much-needed network of charging infrastructure to support the existing and future uptake of electromobility.
Project Summary
100 Electric Forecourts across the UK in 5 years
24charging positions at each Electric Forecourt
12super chargers at the centre of each Electric Forecourt
A new typology
The Electric Forecourt® represents the radical evolution of the fuel station. This mindset allowed our architects to create a fresh and practical design concept – one that combines easy access for drivers, grasscrete surfaces and even additional features such as running loops. Our approach to the design provides a unique formula integrating exceptional customer experience and an optimal charging configuration all set within lush landscaping – a new typology. The architectural design is centred around usability as well as the potential to frame exciting natural views. Playing with elevation and levels, gives prominence to views of surrounding natural landscapes.
“This infrastructure will accelerate the electric vehicle revolution, serve the grid, and help the UK meet climate and clean air targets ” Toddington Harper CEO and founder of GRIDSERVE
Natural views
Our design is centred around the provision of people centred series that allow users to recharge while their vehicles do the same. The range of suggested facilities depending on location include: coffee shops, fresh food outlets, convenience supermarket, co-working or gym spaces and airport-style lounge with high-speed internet, which will also serve as an education centre and hub to explore a broad range of electric vehicle solutions. Ensuring a holistic user experience is at the heart of the design will support electric vehicle adoption is truly going to accelerate across the country.
Modular offsite construction for EV charging
Arup’s architects have developed an adaptable ‘kit of parts’; strategy facilitates a network of differently sized sites and in various topologies. The proposed modular design which has been created to be developed off-site reduces the wet trades on site and provides a product which is green and clean, creating a high-quality environment. The design has been developed around a set of key principles which will continue to be a driving force in design development as we progress towards implementation.
Rapid charging
It will take less than 30-minutes to charge most vehicles, and during this time drivers will be able to take advantage of a range of facilities. A typical configuration includes up to 24 ultra-fast charging bays, with batteries to support the maximum power requirements of all chargers simultaneously. A new queuing system will also minimise waiting times and allow customers to be able to reserve charging slots in advance.
Future-proof design
Station facilities need to adapt as technology advances and charging time. The spatial layout has been designed to prioritise zoning which can adapt and change over time. This strategy will accommodate for different space requirements and loading times that ensure a smooth turnover, avoiding conflicts between different users’ evolving needs.
“We look forward to developing our design with GRIDSERVE and implementing the fuel station of the future, empowering our growing urban populations to choose a cleaner more sustainable way of life. ”
Jo Wright Director
Construction is scheduled to start on the first sites later this year. To find out more about the Electric Forecourt® contact our architecture team.
