A new electric charge point has been tipped to ‘revolutionise’ the housebuilding industry.
Created by Annan-based Eco Group alongside a team of industry experts, the BriXcell is described as a ‘simple, compact solution’ which can be ‘easily’ installed during the construction phase of any new build.
Eco Group said it comes ahead of the UK Government due to make it a requirement for mandatory charge points in new homes and commercial buildings in England. The invention contains the entire EV charging point infrastructure within a brick-sized construction pack which can be fitted as part of the existing building process.
The electrical connection system is then wired at the first fix stage, with a decorative cover fitted. The cover is swapped for a charge point when it’s needed by the new homeowner, ensuring the warranty begins at the point of requirement.
Tim Gardner, who is part of the four-strong team behind the BriXcell, said, “We see this product as a game-changer for the new-build industry. What started as a sketch on a piece of paper almost three years ago has developed into a fit-for-purpose product which we can now take to the market.
“Traditionally these types of products have been surface mounted but we challenged ourselves to restrict it to the size and shape of a standard brick so it can form part of the construction process. The BriXcell has been through a rigorous testing process and the feedback we have received so far from the industry has been extremely positive. The main advantage of the BriXcell to a house builder or developer is that they don’t need to change any of their existing processes to install it, which saves money and time.
“It really is as simple as laying a brick. And when the homeowner moves into the property, the charge point is ready for them to use. We’ve been told that it’s so simple yet so cleverly designed that it could be ground-breaking for the industry.”
