Instavolt has started construction on the UK’s first motorway charging hub with battery storage that connects directly to its charging points, according to company officials.
The project launched at Welcome Break Corley Services on the M6. It’s designed to reduce strain on the National Grid while keeping ultra-rapid charging speeds consistent.
Battery Storage System
Two large battery units will be installed on both sides of the motorway. These store energy on-site and feed it straight to Instavolt’s chargers.
The setup allows for a smaller grid connection. It also maintains steady ultra-rapid charging speeds when demand peaks.
The existing 62.5kW chargers are being upgraded to Instavolt’s newest 160kW units. Eight chargers will go on the northbound side, with seven more on the southbound site.
Similar battery storage projects will begin at 12 additional Instavolt locations in the coming weeks. The rollout starts with sites in North Wales and Eastbourne.
Delvin Lane, CEO of Instavolt, said the company is first to provide this type of battery storage system on a motorway network.
“This transformative project represents another important milestone for Instavolt and for the UK’s public charging infrastructure. We’re demonstrating how smart energy management can deliver reliable ultra-rapid charging while reducing pressure on the grid.”
Lane added that innovation like this will help ensure EV charging remains scalable and sustainable for the next wave of electric vehicles.
Industry Context
John Diviney, CEO of Welcome Break, said the company is proud to lead the transformation of motorway services for the future.
“This development reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering a seamless and reliable EV charging experience for all drivers.”
National Highways began testing large-scale battery storage in 2023 as a way to support motorway EV charging during peak demand periods.
The agency also started experimenting with “kinetic” battery systems last year. These store energy during low demand periods, then release it quickly to maintain charging power when demand spikes.
