Electric vehicle (EV) charge point operator Believ has installed EV charging infrastructure at the voco Zeal Exeter Science Park, IHG Hotels & Resorts’ first branded net zero carbon hotel, to support the hotel in meeting its sustainability targets and provide customers with convenient EV charging.
Located on the outskirts of the city of Exeter in southwest England, the four-star, 142-bedroom hotel is designed in accordance with the UK Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework and will generate 100% of its electricity through photovoltaic roof and wall panels. It offers a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, gym, gardens and meeting spaces. Its proximity to the M5 motorway and Exeter Airport makes it a popular choice for both leisure and business travellers.
Zeal Hotels chose Believ for its ability to install all charge point speeds that accommodate the different charging needs of hotel guests and visitors. This is complemented by a fully funded installation, operation, and maintenance provision.
Believ has installed a dual-socket ultra rapid charge point, a dual-socket rapid and three dual-socket fast chargers across the hotel’s car park – providing a total of 10 charging bays. Two further fast charging bays have been installed, ready for activation when utilisation meets the required threshold.
The range of charge points were chosen to meet the multiple use cases at the site and maximise the current available power capacity. Rapid and ultra rapid charge points are designed for users of the hotel’s restaurant, gardens and gym, where customers have between 45 minutes to two hours to top up their car’s charge. The fast chargers are suitable for longer dwell times and overnight residents.
Following Believ’s accreditation to Carbon Neutral Britain, and its position as an inherently net zero focused business, Tony Clark at Zeal Hotels says Believ aligns with the core ethos behind the landmark development: “Believ’s mission to deliver cleaner air for all aligns with our own dedication to addressing climate change and minimising our carbon footprint. By harnessing renewable energy sources, implementing energy-efficient designs, and utilising cutting-edge technology across the hotel, we aim to create a space that is not only luxurious but also prioritises environmental responsibility.
“As part of this, we understand the vital need to support our customers in their transition to EVs, and Believ’s ability to install all charging speeds helps us offer the ultimate convenience in charging experience.”
Dan Lessiter, Head of Strategic Accounts at Believ, says they are thrilled to work with a business that leads its field in sustainability: “Not only will the chargers offer convenient, reliable charging solutions for EV drivers, but they also utilise 100% renewable energy, essential for sustainability-focused businesses such as Zeal. The installation will help attract the growing numbers of EV drivers and further levels of customer satisfaction, retention and loyalty.”
