New ebike chargers coming to Caledonia Way cycle route between Inverness and Oban thanks to deal between Sustrans and Bosch
Ebike riders on the Caledonian Way will soon be able to recharge their batteries in more ways than one when pedalling the long-distance route.
Sustrans, the charity which aims to make it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle, has announced a partnership with Bosch eBike Systems to introduce charging points for cyclists.
The ebike charging "PowerStations" are being launched at several places on the National Cycle Network across the UK.
Four of the charge points will be located on the 234-mile route that links Inverness to Fort William, Oban and Campbeltown.
The initial phase of the partnership in Scotland will see the stations installed at the Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus, as well as the Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, Woodlands Glencoe and West Coast Motors Travel Shop in Oban.
The Caledonia Way is one of the UK’s most popular coast to coast cycling routes, with an estimated 2.5 million journeys made by bike along the route each year.
Sustrans CEO Xavier Brice said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Bosch eBikes. By installing charging points across the National Cycle Network, we are delivering our shared-vision for a UK-wide network of traffic-free paths, connecting cities, towns and countryside, loved by the communities they serve.
“This infrastructure for ebike charging will provide new and existing users with a safe and accessible way to use the National Cycle Network, free from charging anxiety.”
With four PowerStations introduced between Oban and Fort Augustus, everyone from those new to cycling to seasoned ebikers can now confidently plan longer rides and explore even more places along the Caledonia Way, Sustrans said.
Located at key destinations including the Caledonian Canal Centre and Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, the charging points are also a great opportunity to learn more about the west of Scotland’s rich history and heritage.
Ross McMillan, destinations and operations manager at Scottish Canals, said: “We are delighted to host an ebike charging station at the Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus and look forward to welcoming more adventure seekers than ever before, whether they are stopping for a break along the Caledonia Way or resting their head after a day exploring the Great Glen.
“The promotion and growth of sustainable tourism is a key part of Scottish Canals’ corporate plan and the ebike charging station aligns with our delivery of this.”
The Bosch chargers can achieve a 50 per cent charge in around one hour, depending on the size of battery.
Currently only Bosch batteries are compatible with the initial six PowerStations installed across the UK, but forthcoming phases of the project will see future charging points compatible with other ebike battery systems.
Chris Astle, UK marketing manager, Bosch eBike Systems, said: “Working with Sustrans to continue to roll out ebike charging across the UK was a natural decision for us.
“We’re delighted to have the opportunity to develop the National Cycle Network and make these amazing routes accessible to everyone.”