Urban Fox, the electric vehicle (EV) charging arm of Balfour Beatty, has secured its first contract with Newport City Council

Formed through a partnership between Balfour Beatty Investments and Urban Electric Networks, Urban Fox will install 120 EV charge points across Newport.

These units will be fitted directly onto existing streetlamps, helping to maximise pavement space, preserve the character of residential streets, and improve on-street accessibility.

Smarter Infrastructure for Cleaner Transport

The project eliminates the need for new standalone infrastructure by integrating chargers with street lighting columns. This approach minimises visual impact and construction disruption, aligning with Newport’s goal to enhance sustainable transport options without compromising urban aesthetics.

Some streets will host multiple chargers, significantly expanding the city’s charging capacity and supporting residents who rely on on-street parking. This method is particularly suited to areas with limited pavement space where traditional charging units are not viable.

Turnkey Solutions Driving Innovation

Urban Fox was established in 2023 to meet rising demand for practical, accessible EV infrastructure across the UK. The company provides a full-service model covering funding, planning, installation, and maintenance.

Among its innovations is the UEone retractable charge point—designed to remain flush with the ground when not in use—enhancing safety and street aesthetics. Urban Fox positions this technology as a first in the UK’s on-street EV charging market.

Supporting Net Zero Ambitions

This contract is a significant milestone in Urban Fox’s growth and reinforces Balfour Beatty’s commitment to sustainable, community-focused infrastructure. The initiative also supports Newport’s ongoing efforts to expand its EV network coverage, especially for homes without access to off-street parking.

Newport is already recognised for having the strongest on-street EV charging coverage in Wales. The deployment of lamp-post chargers will further enhance accessibility and encourage more residents to adopt electric vehicles, contributing to national net-zero targets.