By james art 
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has secured the three sites where the ultra-fast charging stations will be built.
Once fully operational, expected by next year, each will have 20 chargers to allow electric vehicle drivers to charge 100 miles, or range, in less than 15 minutes.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said the program was essential to getting more electric vehicles on the region’s roads.
The first site on Chester Road in Erdington has been granted planning permission and is part of the wider regeneration of the former GKN factory by developer Chancerygate, which will see 270,000 sq. ft. of retail units for small businesses with the potential to create approximately 300 jobs.
Land has also been acquired for an ultra-fast charging station on Bristol Road South in Longbridge, Birmingham, just meters from the redevelopment which is taking place on the site of the former Rover West Works.
And a third site is on Coventry Road in Sheldon, crossing the Solihull and Birmingham border near the airport.
Mr Parker said: “Delivering more ultra-fast charging stations is essential if we are to get more electric vehicles on our roads.
“These stations will provide drivers and businesses with 24/7 access to fast, reliable charging and the confidence to switch to electric vehicles.
“They will keep the West Midlands moving towards a cleaner, greener future where sustainable travel is practical, accessible and affordable for everyone.”
WMCA said it has plans to expand the network of ultra-fast charging stations over the next two years with a view to putting 90 percent of residents and businesses within easy recharging range.
It is hoped the stations will help support the region’s green transport goals and plans to be net-zero by 2041.
Funding for the multi-million pound network is part of the region’s £1.3 billion Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) from the government and is backed by private investment.
Landowners can submit sites to be considered for development at www.wmca.org.uk/what-we-do/environment-energy/electric-vehicle-ultra-rapid-charging-stations/.