473 Rapid Locations UK

Rapid & DC Fast Chargers Near Me

Find DC fast charging stations (50kW-350kW) for quick top-ups. Rapid chargers use DC power to add 100+ miles of range in 20-30 minutes - perfect for motorway stops and long journeys.

Rapid Chargers
473
50kW+ locations
Of All Chargers
48%
are rapid
Networks
49
with rapid

What is Rapid Charging?

50kW+
Rapid chargers deliver 50kW or more, with ultra-rapid chargers reaching 350kW for the fastest charging speeds.
20-40 mins
Charge to 80% in just 20-40 minutes depending on your vehicle and charger speed. Perfect for motorway stops.
DC Power
Rapid chargers use DC (direct current) to bypass your car's onboard charger, enabling much faster charging speeds.

Rapid Charging Connectors

CCS

50-350kW

Most European EVs (Tesla, VW, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Hyundai, Kia, Ford)

CHAdeMO

50kW

Nissan LEAF, older Mitsubishi, older Kia/Hyundai models

Top Rapid Charging Networks

Pod Point
83rapid
Most LocationsOsprey Charging
69rapid
Lidl
30rapid
InstaVolt Ltd
30rapid
BP Pulse
27rapid
Tesla
17rapid
Weev
15rapid
ChargePoint
15rapid
Roam Charging (UK)
13rapid
Electric Highway (UK)
11rapid

Browse Other Charger Types

Type 2 (7-22kW)CCS ChargersTesla SuperchargersAll EV Chargers

About Rapid EV Charging in the UK

The UK has 473 rapid EV charging locations, representing48% of all public chargers. Rapid chargers (50kW and above) are the fastest way to charge your electric vehicle on the go, making long-distance EV travel practical and convenient.

Types of Rapid Chargers

  • 50kW Rapid: The original "rapid" standard. Adds around 100 miles of range in 30 minutes. Common at older installations and some supermarket car parks.
  • Ultra-Rapid (100-150kW): The current sweet spot for most EVs. Adds 100 miles in 15-20 minutes. Found at motorway services and dedicated charging hubs.
  • High-Power (150-350kW): The fastest chargers available. Only the latest EVs can use these speeds fully. Found at IONITY, GRIDSERVE, and Tesla Superchargers.

Where to Find Rapid Chargers

Rapid chargers are strategically located for convenient long-distance travel:

  • Motorway service stations (Shell Recharge, BP Pulse, GRIDSERVE)
  • Major supermarkets (InstaVolt at McDonald's, Pod Point at Tesco)
  • Dedicated charging hubs (GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourts)
  • Retail parks and shopping centres

Tips for Rapid Charging

  • Pre-condition your battery: Many EVs can warm the battery via sat-nav to enable faster charging speeds.
  • Charge to 80%: Rapid charging slows significantly above 80% to protect battery health.
  • Use apps to check availability: Apps like Zap-Map, Plugshare, and network apps show real-time availability.

FAQs

Data last updated: 2 January 2026 at 14:51

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