Source launches its first UK ultra-rapid hub

Source, a bold new force in EV charging backed by SSE and TotalEnergies, has unveiled its first ultra-rapid hub at Ocean Terminal in Edinburgh – its first anywhere in the UK - marking the beginning of a new era for EV drivers across the UK and Ireland.

Officially “powered up” today and opening to the public on May 6th, the 12-bay flagship hub is the first of over 300 sites that Source plans to deliver over the next five years. The launch signals Source’s intent to reshape the EV charging experience, making it smarter, faster, and truly customer centric.

Strategically located at Ocean Terminal the site features six 160kW chargers which, based on industry accepted charging session data, would allow users to ‘charge and go’ in around 15 minutes.

From cutting edge interfaces and contactless payments to round-the-clock customer service, Source hubs are built for simplicity, reliability, and speed. Powered by renewable energy and the latest market-leading infrastructure from SSE, including its innovative compact substation, along with unparalleled technology from TotalEnergies, means every charge is designed to be as clean as it is convenient.

Deepa Chandrasekaran, Managing Director at Source, said:

“The EV industry has reached a turning point, and we’re here to lead it into unchartered territories. At Source, we’re not just building charge points, we’re building confidence. Our ambition is to capture 20% of the UK & Ireland’s ultra-rapid market by delivering hubs that are easy to find, easy to use, and built for the future.”

Already home to the Royal Yacht Britannia, Ocean Terminal’s redevelopment includes 530 new homes and major retail tenants like Tesco and sets the perfect stage for Source’s arrival.

Chris Richardson, divisional managing director of Ambassador Group, owners of Ocean Terminal, said:

“We are creating a re-imagined Ocean Terminal to better suit the needs of both the local community and visitors. Sustainability is central to our thinking and having a Source hub on site, its first in the UK, perfectly aligns with our goals.

“We know EV drivers are looking for efficient and reliable charging but also something to do whilst they charge, and the new centre will be a great place for them to spend that time.”

Scotland boasts more than 6,700 charge points, and ranks fourth in the UK for coverage, but this new hub pushes the boundaries of what EV drivers can expect from public charging.

Source is rising to meet a national challenge, with the UK Government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate and Ireland’s target of 1 million EVs by 2030, infrastructure must evolve quickly and intelligently. Source’s community-focused hubs will support everyday drivers, busy fleet operators, and the decarbonisation goals of both nations.

One local business, WarmWorks, a Leith-based home energy efficiency business, has a fleet of 45 vehicles of which almost 70% are electric.

Andrea McKenzie, the company’s sustainable transport manager, said:

"As a fleet manager aiming to electrify our fleet fully, access to reliable rapid charge points is essential to our business. Charging Hubs like these build confidence that our drivers can recharge their cars when needed and be back on the road as soon as possible. My colleagues travel extensively throughout the UK and have shown a clear preference for visiting ultra-rapid charge points such as these, so it is great to see more become available close to our Edinburgh office.

“Knowing that these are powered by renewable electricity aligns well with our environmental goals and our ambition to be a net zero business by 2030."

Also present at today’s launch event was artist Katie Mcluckie who has been commissioned by Source to produce a piece of art depicting “The future of transport” which will eventually be displayed at Source’s HQ in London.