First Charge to showcase high-power, low-cost EV charging for commercial fleets at RTX 2026

First Charge, First Bus's commercial EV charging network, will showcase its growing network of high-power charging hubs at Road Transport Expo (RTX). 

Visitors to Stand N4 will be able to learn more about the First Charge network, which provides HGVs and commercial fleets with access to charging infrastructure at electrified First Bus depots nationwide. 

As operators continue to plan the transition to zero-emission vehicles, access to affordable, reliable and conveniently located charging infrastructure remains a critical consideration. First Charge has been developed to help address these challenges, offering charging from 33p/kWh and high-power charging of up to 400kW at purpose-built transport locations designed to support commercial vehicle operations. 

Compatible vehicles can recharge in as little as 45 minutes, helping operators minimise downtime and maximise vehicle utilisation. 

Unlike many public charging locations, First Charge sites offer the space and accessibility needed for larger vehicles, making them well suited to HGVs and commercial fleets. With locations across key transport corridors and further expansion planned, the network provides a practical charging solution for both regional and national operations. 

Operators can access the First Charge network through direct commercial agreements with First Charge or via leading fleet charging platforms, including AllStar and Paua. 

Andy Gwilliam, Head of Product & Standards at First Charge, said: 

"Commercial fleet operators need charging solutions that are affordable, reliable and built around the realities of commercial transport. Cost, charging speed, accessibility and location all play an important role, particularly for operators managing larger vehicles and demanding schedules. 

"First Charge brings these benefits together through high-power charging of up to 400kW, competitive charging rates from just 33p/kWh and access to a growing network of conveniently located sites across the UK. By helping reduce charging times and providing greater operational flexibility, we're making it easier for operators to transition to zero-emission transport.

"We're looking forward to meeting fleet operators at RTX and discussing how First Charge can support their electrification plans, whether they're just starting their transition or looking to scale existing zero-emission operations."  

Andy will also be speaking at RTX as part of the panel discussion "Powering the transition: how is infrastructure catching up with electric freight?" on the Knowledge Zone stage from 10:50am to 11:35am on Thursday 2 July. The session will explore the role of charging infrastructure, depot readiness, grid capacity and industry collaboration in supporting the transition to battery-electric freight transport. 

Visit First Charge on Stand N4 at Road Transport Expo 2026, taking place at NAEC Stoneleigh from Tuesday 30 June to Thursday 2 July.