THE ASTON Barclay auction network is all charged up with twin electric vehicle chargers across its network to cater for the increasing number of EVs and hybrids set to arrive at auction over the coming 12-24 months.

The move, at its centres in Chelmsford, Donington Park, Leeds, Prees Heath and Westbury, means the company will be fully prepared for growing volumes of electric and plug-in hybrid models coming through the auction halls.

As part of the exacting Assured inspection all vehicle systems are checked thoroughly before they head through the auction hall. However, with electric/plug-in hybrid vehicles arriving at site on a vehicle transporter, often with no charge, this could delay the sales process.

The introduction of the fast charging units from Rolec mean this problem can be eliminated – allowing electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to be inspected and sold in the same efficient manner as conventionally-fuelled models.

The units, installed by Crewe-based Renew Electrical, are Rolec WallPod Commercial Charge 32A units and are designed to offer full Mode 3 fast charging to every electric vehicle on the market in the UK.

The units are specifically designed for use in commercial areas as they require their own electrical supply – a 32amp unit will charge more than twice as fast as a domestic standard 13A plug. This is vital for Aston Barclay as a fast charge enable used vehicles to be turned around quickly.

Martin Potter, Aston Barclay’s group operations director, explained: “We are just starting to see the number of hybrids and EVs being sent to auction slowly increase so we wanted to make sure we were well prepared for when used volumes start to further grow. Having twin chargers on every site also means buyers or vendors can charge their car while they are with us.”