East Lothian Council has chosen SWARCO eVolt to supply its electric vehicle (EV) charging units.

The new agreement will see 45 charging hubs around the county, with 11 of the units to be rapid chargers, which can charge two vehicles at the same time in 30 minutes.

The county’s six largest towns - Musselburgh, Tranent, Haddington, Dunbar, North Berwick and Prestonpans - will have EV charging points installed, including rapid chargers.

The smaller towns and villages in the county will also have EV charging options. Some will be installed at car parks and next to on-street parking places.

Ryan Robertson, roads office at East Lothian Council, said: “Our aim is to promote the use of EV’s to the residents of East Lothian and provide them with the essential infrastructure they need to use and charge their EV’s, including in some of the most rural areas in the county. And that requires a reliable supplier, capable of fulfilling our plans.

“SWARCO eVolt came well recommended and were selected after a thorough due diligence process.”

“So far they’ve been fantastic. We have a local maintenance engineer who is always available to provide support and first-class customer service.”   

The news comes a month after former transport secretary Chris Grayling asked every government department to start the transition to ultra-low emission car fleet.

In 2018, the Road to Zero strategy was also put in place. The commitment should see all central government cars electric by 2030, and new-build homes will have EV charge points.

Justin Meyer, general manager at SWARCO eVolt, said: “Scotland is leading the way for EV’s and EV infrastructure, so we are pleased to be supporting East Lothian Council and its project to promote the use and uptake of EV’s.

“We are pleased to see our proven and reliable charging units making a real difference to the local residents and visitors.”