Europe’s ‘first fully retractable’ electronic car chargers unveiled at Dundee

Europe’s first fully retractable electronic vehicle chargers have been launched in Dundee.

Urban Fox, a partnership between Balfour Beatty Investments and Urban Electric Networks, unveiled the UEone – Europe’s first fully retractable electric vehicle (EV) chargers – at a launch event held at the V&A on Wednesday.

Following seven years of development and a successful two-and a half-year trial, 18 new chargers have been installed across nine locations in the city, on behalf of Dundee City Council.

The on-street charge points have been described as the “first of their kind” and will rises from the ground to an accessible height.

When the charge points are not in use, they will auto-retract and flush underground, leaving pavements more accessible to pedestrians.

Members of the public can use the chargers by downloading the Urban Fox App.

Oli Freeling-Wilkinson, CEO of Urban Fox, said: “After more than seven years of intensive development and testing, we are immensely proud to unveil Europe’s only flat and flush charging solution that complies with the highest accessibility standards.

“At Urban Fox we are passionate about addressing the pressing need for near-home EV charging infrastructure across the UK, to ensure that no one is left behind on the road to net zero.””At Urban Fox we are passionate about addressing the pressing need for near-home EV charging infrastructure across the UK, to ensure that no one is left behind on the road to net zero.”

Gavin Russell, Chief Executive Officer of Balfour Beatty Investments, added: “Today’s launch marks a significant milestone in the UK’s journey to achieving net zero.

“The launch at the renowned V&A museum in Dundee highlights how innovative technology can significantly enhance, not detract from urban spaces and living.”

Dundee City Council Fair Work, Economic Growth & Infrastructure Convener, Councillor Steven Rome, said: ”I am pleased to see Dundee City Council invest in low-emission transport, further proving that we are continuously making progress towards achieving our net-zero targets.

“Dundee City Council believes that it is important to deploy charge points that are as accessible as possible to deliver equitable access to EV charging solutions, and this innovation helps cater to the needs of our communities.’’