Driving Towards a Greener Future in Slough.

The road to a net-zero future is electric and the race is on. Driven by growing environmental concerns and tighter regulations, car manufacturers are developing innovative ways to lower their carbon emissions. This transformation is not only a response to climate change but also a move toward producing cleaner, more efficient vehicles.

As the automotive industry accelerates towards a greener future, Slough stands out due to its electric vehicle (EV) innovation and sustainable business practices. With its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and commitment to environmental initiatives, Slough offers unparalleled opportunities for automotive companies aiming to lead in the EV movement.

Automotive Excellence

Slough Trading Estate, the largest industrial estate in single private ownership in Europe, hosts over 500 businesses across 486 acres, providing 7.5 million square feet of commercial space.

Notably, the estate is home to key players in the automotive and EV sectors including the UK headquarters for Ferrari, Citroën, which has had a longstanding presence in Slough, and the Windrush Automotive Group, a leading Volkswagen retailer, which has its head office in Slough. The company operates intensively in the local area and has embraced electric Volkswagen cars, establishing itself as a significant retailer of new and approved used electric vehicles, setting an example for the industry.

A Town Investing in the Future

Slough Borough Council is backing the EV movement with real infrastructure. The council has secured over £2.233 million from the Department for Transport’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Capital Fund. These funds will help install at least 1,600 on-street EV charging points by 2040, with a focus on residential areas where off-street parking is limited.

Additionally, the opening of GRIDSERVE’s Electric Retail Hub at Slough Retail Park, featuring high capacity 120kW chargers, further strengthens the town’s appeal for EV users and businesses alike.

Pat Hayes, Executive Director of Housing, Property, and Regeneration at Slough Borough Council says: “Slough is not just open for business, we're building the infrastructure and environment that future-focused companies need to thrive. We invite automotive leaders to be part of our journey, to innovate and grow in a town and borough that’s serious about sustainability and economic resilience.”

Local Strength, Global Reach

Slough’s automotive sector is supported by youthful, local and diverse labour base, which reflects the town’s inclusive nature, and has development capacity. Access to training and upskilling, through partnerships with local colleges, apprenticeship schemes, and employer-led initiatives, ensures that the workforce can adapt to advancing technologies while supporting sustainable growth.

 

A Strategic Location for Growth

Situated along the M4 corridor, often referred to as England's "Silicon Valley”, Slough offers EV drivers excellent connectivity to London and other major cities. This prime location attracts a diverse range of businesses, creating a vibrant economic environment conducive to growth and innovation.

As the global automotive industry shifts gears towards cleaner, greener transport, Slough is ready to lead. By establishing operations in Slough, automotive companies focused on electric vehicles and environmental responsibility can be part of a progressive-thinking community driving forward the sustainable future of transportation.