Swiss retailer Migros plans to add more than 2,000 e-charging stations at Migros locations and Migrol filling stations throughout Switzerland.
The new e-charging stations feature several improvements, such as faster charging speed and more flexible payment options, the company added.
Last year, Migros and Migrol tested the new charging system for electric cars under the name M-Charge.
The company has decided to expand the e-charging network across Switzerland, based on the outcome of the pilot project.
Andreas Flütsch, CEO of Migrol AG said, "Together with Migros, we are providing a future-oriented mobility offer within Switzerland and offering customers an additional service while they shop.
"The national rollout is a clear commitment to alternative forms of propulsion and an important component of our sustainable mobility strategy."
M-Charge
As part of the M-Charge Comfort offer, customers have access to e-charging stations with 50-60 kW DC power, allowing electric cars to recharge during an average shopping trip.
Migrol is accepting payments from debit/credit cards to Twint and Migrolcard. It is also developing a payment option via the Migrol account.
The retailer is also integrating M-Charge charging stations into the Migros branch finder to enable customers to find the nearest e-charging station.
E-Charging Stations
Presently, Migros operates around 300 e-charging stations for electric cars and bikes throughout Switzerland. In addition, there are currently 24 Migrol locations with fast-charging stations.
"The e-charging stations increase the attractiveness of our locations and offer customers the opportunity to do their shopping while charging," said Reto Sopranetti, managing director of Migros Genossenschaft Aare.
The rollout of the new charging stations will be carried out within the next five years.
Migrol will be responsible for investments and operation of the M-Charge charging network in Switzerland. It uses electricity exclusively from 100% renewable resources.
"The nationwide supply of food to the Swiss population is Migros' core competence. Migrol is a leader in the mobility and energy markets. I am pleased that we are using the synergies in-house and that Migrol is building even more e-charging stations throughout the country," added Michel Gruber, head of the retail department at MGB.
