Urban Fox, a partnership between Balfour Beatty Investments and Urban Electric Networks, has introduced the UEone, Europe's first fully retractable electric vehicle (EV) chargers. The launch event took place at the V&A Dundee, Scotland, where 18 new Mk5 UEone chargers were installed across nine locations in Dundee on behalf of Dundee City Council. These 7kW on-street charge points are designed to rise from the ground to an accessible height and retract flat and flush underground when not in use, leaving pavements clutter-free and more accessible to pedestrians.
The chargers can be summoned and used by the public through the Urban Fox App. The launch event also featured Smart UK presenting its latest award-winning electric model, the Smart #1, emphasizing the importance of improved on-street charging for electric vehicles. Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, CEO of Urban Fox, expressed pride in unveiling Europe's only flat and flush charging solution that complies with the highest accessibility standards, addressing the pressing need for near-home EV charging infrastructure across the UK.
Gavin Russell, CEO of Balfour Beatty Investments, highlighted the significance of the launch in the UK's journey to achieving net zero, emphasizing how innovative technology can enhance urban spaces. Dundee City Council's Councillor Steven Rome expressed satisfaction with the investment in low-emission transport, emphasizing the importance of deploying accessible charge points to cater to the needs of communities. Jason Allbutt, CEO of Smart UK, stressed the importance of a robust and reliable charging network to support the transition to electric mobility.
Urban Fox, recognized as a Top 6 European Cleantech Start-up by Climate-KIC, combines Urban Electric Networks' innovation with Balfour Beatty's capabilities in delivering infrastructure in local communities. The partnership offers an end-to-end solution for EV charging needs, including planning, design, installation, operation, and maintenance. For further information on Urban Fox's on-street charge point or to discuss how Urban Fox can support the deployment of charge points, inquiries can be directed to [email protected].