Sainsbury’s Smart Charge Powers 60 Million Fossil-Free Miles in Just a Year

Image Credit: Sainsbury's

Smart Charge, the ultra-rapid EV charging network developed by Sainsbury’s, has hit a landmark achievement: it’s helped drivers avoid the equivalent of 60 million miles powered by fossil fuels. That’s not just a feel-good stat—it translates into 10.71 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions not released into our atmosphere—a win for drivers, and an even bigger win for the planet.

Since launching in January 2024, Smart Charge has quickly emerged as a key player in the UK’s shift toward greener transport. With over 650 ultra-rapid charging bays now live across 78 Sainsbury’s locations, the rollout has been fast, far-reaching, and—more importantly—functional. You can now plug in while picking up your weekly shop; no apps or subscriptions are required. Just tap, charge, and go.

And it's not just any power. Every mile charged through Smart Charge is backed by 100% renewable electricity, the same clean energy powering Sainsbury’s wider estate. That’s crucial, because charging an EV on dirty energy defeats the purpose. With Smart Charge, that’s not a concern.

Let’s talk speed. These chargers deliver 150kW ultra-rapid charging, which means you could top up your battery in under 30 minutes—faster than it takes to browse the chilled aisle. At 72p per kWh, the price point is among the most competitive in the ultra-rapid category.

But there’s more: Nectar rewards. Yes, you earn one Nectar point for every £1 spent on charging, and since the launch, EV drivers have racked up more than 10 million points. It’s a clever blend of sustainability and customer loyalty, and the first of its kind in the UK.

The momentum is backed by action. Over the past year, £25 million has been invested into Smart Charge’s growth—funding high-performing sites, expanding access, and installing new hubs in high-demand areas. The impact? The amount of renewable energy supplied so far could’ve powered a round trip from Land’s End to John o’ Groats 35,000 times. Let that sink in.

Patrick Dunne, Chief Property and Procurement Officer, MD of Smart Charge, said: “Reaching 60 million fossil-free miles in just over a year shows what’s possible with investment and a relentless focus on our customers. We set out to remove the barriers to EV adoption by making charging fast, reliable and easy – and that’s exactly what Smart Charge delivers, at convenient locations where lots of EV drivers already shop.

“Investing in our EV network is a key part of our Next Level Sainsbury’s strategy, and we’re just getting started. We’re excited to keep building on its initial success and take Smart Charge even further in the months and years ahead.” 

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “It’s amazing that Sainsbury’s has powered 60 million miles worth of zero emission journeys in just over a year, thanks to its £25m investment to install hundreds of chargers at its stores – helping drivers charge easily and conveniently while doing their shopping.

“We’re investing £2.3 billion to help drivers switch to electric vehicles while putting money in the pockets of hardworking people by protecting jobs, backing British carmakers and driving growth as part of the Plan for Change.

With four recognised charging speeds in the UK—slow (3–6kW), Fast (7–22kW), Rapid (25–99kW), and Ultra-Rapid (100kW+)—Smart Charge firmly sits in the top tier. It delivers unmatched convenience and helps normalise EV adoption by making charging as routine as a supermarket visit.

Ultimately, this isn’t just an EV charging solution—it’s part of Sainsbury’s mission to build a cleaner, smarter, more connected future. Smart Charge is already plugged in as the UK edges towards a low-carbon economy.