British Gas has struck a deal with Osprey Charging to provide its drivers with access to public electric vehicle (EV) chargers.

Osprey operates one of the largest rapid charger networks, with more than 300 stations across the UK.

For British Gas, the partnership provides a simple driver experience and centralised fleet billing to support its electric fleet operations.

James Rooney, fleet engineering and innovation manager at British Gas, said: “It is essential that we support our engineering team with not just an accessible network of charging points, but a method of paying for charging that is hassle free. We know that around seven in ten of our drivers don’t have access to home charging and partnerships such as this will help to provide the confidence required that making the switch to electric is achievable.”

The firm operates one of the largest fleets in the UK, with around 9,000 vehicles. It plans to convert its entire fleet to electric vehicles by 2025.

By partnering with nationwide charging networks, British Gas said it can create a "convenient and seamless" payment method via one electric fuel card and improve the EV public charging experience for its engineers.

The partnership has been made possible via direct technical interoperability between Osprey’s proprietary software platform and British Gas’ own fleet management system.

As part of the collaboration the British Gas fleet will also have access to the 150 high power EV charging hubs Osprey will deliver by 2024 as part of a £75 million investment programme to exceed drivers’ expectations for charger availability and speed.

Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging, added: “We are thrilled that British Gas has chosen to partner with Osprey to unlock further EV adoption and lead the transition to the future of transport. Our market-leading commercial and fleet roaming capabilities provide even more EV drivers with the ultimate charging experience via access to our nationwide, reliable and open rapid charger network.”

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