Ionity, a leading electric vehicle (EV) charging network provider, has inaugurated one of its largest European charging hubs at the Hilton Leicester, strategically positioned near Junction 21 of the UK’s M1 motorway. This significant development, part of Ionity’s broader collaboration with Valary Hotels, aims to substantially bolster EV travel along one of the UK's busiest transport arteries.

The new facility features 24 high-power charging points, each capable of delivering speeds up to 400kW. This capacity is designed to add over 100 miles of range to compatible electric vehicles in under ten minutes, a crucial factor for drivers on long journeys. Importantly, the entire hub operates on electricity sourced from 100 percent renewable energy, aligning with broader decarbonization efforts. With approximately 140,000 vehicles utilizing the M1 daily, the Hilton Leicester site is poised to become a vital service point for both hotel guests and the wider public.

This initiative extends beyond merely providing charging infrastructure; it forms a core component of the Hilton Leicester’s strategy to establish itself as a comprehensive community hub and destination charging point. The launch marks the opening of its first ‘Rest and Recharge’ center, a concept that will also be rolled out at its South Normanton site, offering 24/7 access to amenities including coffee, food, and high-speed EV charging.

Rajiv Nathwani, Director at Valary Hotels, emphasized the strategic nature of the partnership: “This isn’t just about a commercial rent deal or land, but about partnership with the businesses that complement us and what we represent. We’re providing an important service to the local community, enabling the decarbonization of transport, and futureproofing our business all at the same time.” Nathwani, an EV driver since 2015, highlighted the personal frustration of limited high-quality charging points, underscoring the decision to partner with Ionity for its reliable and user-friendly infrastructure.

Andreas Atkins, Head of UK&I at Ionity, echoed this sentiment, noting that the EV industry is not solely about facilitating travel but also about enabling new experiences. “Partnering with established, reputable providers like Valary Hotels will add a painless, seamless, incredibly quick charging experience to the qualities that the Hilton Leicester can already offer, and allow an entirely new audience of EV drivers to enjoy them,” Atkins stated. This collaboration exemplifies a growing trend of integrating advanced EV charging solutions into existing commercial infrastructure, enhancing convenience and accelerating the transition to electric mobility across the UK.