The new Moto Rugby Services has been formally opened with a plaque unveiling ceremony hosted by Ken McMeikan, Chief Executive of Moto Hospitality. The event was attended by senior local and national government officials and dignitaries, in celebration of Rugby Services, which began operating on 30 April 2021 following a £40 million investment, creating 120 jobs in the West Midlands.
Rugby Services is the UK’s flagship electric vehicle (EV) site, with 24 ultra-rapid EV charging points, 12 Tesla and 12 Electric Highway, making it the largest ultra-rapid charging site on the motorway. The formal opening represents a landmark moment for EV across the UK motorway networks and is a major milestone in Moto’s commitment to encourage more sustainable motoring. The ultra-rapid 350kW direct current (DC) chargers have the capability to add up to 100 miles of range in less than ten minutes and accept contactless payment. A further 28 Moto sites are set to have new ultra-rapid chargers this year, including an upgrade to all existing 50kW chargers by the end of July 2021, with a minimum of six ultra-rapid chargers at all Moto sites by the end of 2022.
Commenting at the opening, Ken McMeikan, Chief Executive of Moto Hospitality, said: “We predict that by 2030 as many as 3 in 10 drivers could be driving into motorway service areas in an electric vehicle. That’s why we’ve committed to a long-term investment programme in sustainable motoring, with Rugby Services the first of four Moto MSAs to have 24 ultra-rapid EV charging points this year alone
“Our vision is to transform the UK’s rest stop experience and with the 350kW direct current (DC) chargers soon to be available at all Moto MSAs, capable of adding up to 100 miles of range in less than ten minutes, motorists can switch into electric vehicles with confidence.”
Rugby Services, located at Junction 1 of the M6, offers easy access to outlets including Marks & Spencer, Greggs, Costa Coffee, KFC, Pret a Manger, Burger King, WHSmith and BP. Originally due to open in July 2020 but delayed due to COVID-19, the new MSA will be in high demand with UK staycations set to replace travel abroad this summer for many people. The site also offers commuters a great alternative place to meet and work with upgraded WiFi, contactless charge points and dedicated seating booths. This is set to increase in importance with more people likely to continue working remotely as a consequence of COVID-19.
Pictured Rachel Maclean MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport; Ken McMeikan, Chief Executive, Moto. Photo by Wayne Myers