CALA Homes (East) is leading the charge on electric vehicle provision at a development in Edinburgh.
The housebuilder is said to be creating the ‘most comprehensive’ charging provision for electric vehicles (EVs) of any development built to date in Scotland, with all 84 apartments at The Crescent at Donaldson’s being served by an EV fast charger, with the infrastructure built into the development’s underground parking.
The provision is the result of a tie-up with Scottish EV charge point installers, Jorro Ltd.
Owners at The Crescent will have access to an EO Genius charging unit, fully connected to the mains, with a dummy unit in place until the final set up is made.
The underground parking at the development is a result of a desire to minimise the impact of cars on the setting. The creation of the parking facilities saw around 36,000m3 of earth transported to restore a former quarry in Ratho.
David Pickles, Jorro managing director said, “It is brilliant for a developer to have the foresight to include this level of EV provision in its plans. While many buyers may not yet have EVs or plug-in hybrids, it is inevitable that a majority will do in the not-too-distant future, as range increases and costs fall.
“The great thing about The Crescent is that the chargers are there, in place and ready to go. All buyers need to do is add the relevant plug unit, due to different car brands choosing varying solutions. Any costs therefore will be negligible.”
Electric car manufacturer Tesla recently drove two of its vehicles into the grounds to test the facilities at The Crescent, in a nod to the ‘forward-thinking and energy-conscious designs’ of the development.
Philip Hogg, sales and marketing director for CALA Homes (East) added, “The entire project is centred on providing buyers with something truly aspirational, yet at the same time, entirely practical.
“This extends to the underground parking – which is extensive with a purpose of minimising any vehicle visibility, creating a secluded retreat in the heart of the city.
“It is highly likely that the vast majority of our owners and future owners at The Crescent will be requiring EV charging within the next few years – so we’re delighted to be able to offer them such comprehensive provision.
“It also greatly reduces the barriers to entry that prevent many people taking up ownership of these much more environmentally-friendly cars.”
