Urban Fox, a collaboration between Balfour Beatty Investments and Urban Electric Networks, has introduced the UEone, Europe’s inaugural fully retractable electric vehicle (EV) chargers, at a launch event hosted at the renowned design museum, V&A Dundee, Scotland.
After seven years of development and a successful two-and-a-half-year trial, Urban Fox has installed 18 new Mk5 UEone chargers across nine locations in Dundee, commissioned by Dundee City Council.
These 7kW on-street charge points, designed with accessibility in focus, are pioneering in the market. The UEone effortlessly ascends from the ground to a user-friendly height and, when not in operation, seamlessly retracts flat and flush underground. This feature enhances pedestrian accessibility by keeping pavements clutter-free compared to other existing EV charge points.
Through the straightforward Urban Fox App download, the public can easily summon the UEone, charge their EV, and monitor their usage. At the unveiling, Smart UK, a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz Group and Geely Holding, showcased one of its latest electric models, the Smart #1. This compact SUV, tailored for urban settings, offers a range of up to 273 miles, ideal for maximizing the benefits of enhanced on-street charging.
Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, CEO of Urban Fox, expressed pride in unveiling Europe’s sole flat and flush charging solution, aligning with the highest accessibility standards. He reiterated Urban Fox’s dedication to addressing the imperative for near-home EV charging infrastructure across the UK, ensuring inclusivity on the path to achieving net-zero emissions.
Gavin Russell, CEO of Balfour Beatty Investments, emphasized, “Today’s launch signifies a significant milestone in the UK’s journey towards achieving net zero. The event at the esteemed V&A museum in Dundee showcases how innovative technology can enhance, rather than detract from, urban spaces and living.”
Councillor Steven Rome, Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure Convener at Dundee City Council, expressed satisfaction with the launch of the UEone chargers in Dundee. He stated, “I am pleased to witness Dundee City Council’s investment in low-emission transport, further demonstrating our ongoing progress towards achieving our net-zero targets. It is crucial to deploy accessible charge points to ensure equitable access to EV charging solutions, and this innovation caters to the needs of our communities.”
Jason Allbutt, CEO of Smart UK, highlighted the importance of a robust charging network to support the UK’s transition to electric mobility. He stressed, “Near-home charging solutions are vital to ensure that a wide range of people can benefit from the affordable, clean, and convenient transport offered by electric vehicles.”
Urban Fox, recognized as a Top 6 European Cleantech Start-up by Climate-KIC, combines Urban Electric Networks’ innovation with Balfour Beatty’s expertise in delivering infrastructure. This collaboration leverages Balfour Beatty’s scale and capabilities to deliver innovative solutions at the heart of local communities, building on its extensive experience and relationships with public services and local authorities.
