We've partnered with Bosch eBike Systems to introduce electric bike charging stations on National Cycle Network routes across the UK. The charging stations will give e-bike riders the confidence to take long distance trips across the British countryside.
Charging stations along the National Cycle Network will help e-bike users to reach further destinations. Credit: Bosch eBike Systems
The charging stations are known as PowerStations and are placed in key locations across the National Cycle Network (the Network).
The stations are free to use and available to all e-bike riders.
The first phase of the installation has brought four charging stations to:
- Sherwood Forest on National Route 6
- and Scotland along the Caledonia Way (three PowerStations).
There are also plans to introduce PowerStations to many more sites across the UK.
Find a e-bike charging station on the National Cycle Network.
Meeting the needs of e-bike users
The pandemic has triggered a rise in the popularity of ebikes, whether that's for exercise, leisure, bikepacking or as an alternative to cars and public transport.
It's expected that electric bike sales will significantly increase in the coming years.
Designated PowerStations along the Network will enable e-bike users to attempt longer rides and explore new places.
This new charging infrastructure will also help to make the UK's routes and countryside more accessible to people who rely on e-bikes to get around.
Connecting cities, towns and countryside
Sustrans CEO, Xavier Brice, commented on the introduction of e-bike charging stations to the Network:
“We are delighted to announce our partnership with Bosch eBikes.
“By installing charging stations across the National Cycle Network, we are delivering our shared-vision for a UK-wide network of traffic-free paths, connecting cities, towns and countryside, loved by the communities they serve.
“This infrastructure for e-bike charging will provide new and existing users with a safe and accessible way to use the National Cycle Network, free from charging anxiety.”
Chris Astle, UK Marketing Manager, Bosch eBike Systems, said:
“Working with Sustrans to continue to roll out eBike charging across the UK was a natural decision for us.
We’re delighted to have the opportunity to develop the National Cycle Network and make these amazing routes accessible to everyone.
I can’t wait to see more eBike riders and their families get active and explore the British countryside in new ways with support from these charging stations.”
Bosch eBike Systems
Bosch eBike Systems is one of the leading manufacturers of electric bike drive systems.
Its products are equipped on e-bikes designed and built by more than 70 brands, including Trek, Raleigh, Cube and Cannondale, among many others.
Depending on the size of the e-bike battery, a 50% charge can be achieved in approximately one hour.
Currently, only Bosch batteries are compatible with the initial six PowerStations, however future phases of the project will see the charging points compatible with other e-bike battery systems.
Find an electric bike charging station on the National Cycle Network.
Thinking about trying an e-bike? Read our guide on where to get started.
