Volt Charge, a subsidiary of JAT Holdings PLC, has emerged as the leading electric vehicle (EV) charging network in Sri Lanka, marking a pivotal development in the nation’s growing electric mobility infrastructure.
Currently, Volt Charge boasts over 80 DC fast chargers, 20 public AC chargers, and more than 3,000 AC home chargers. This impressive expansion has positioned it as a leader in the market, with its public charging network now extending across more than 100 locations in key districts, enhancing accessibility to EV charging in both urban and rural areas.
This achievement is strategically important for JAT Holdings, which has traditionally focused on coatings, surface solutions, and manufacturing. The establishment of Volt Charge signifies the company’s shift towards sectors that integrate technology, infrastructure, and sustainability, aligning with future trends.
These figures not only highlight the extensive deployment of charging stations but also demonstrate Volt Charge’s leadership role in facilitating Sri Lanka’s transition to electric mobility. The public network is currently responsible for over 18,000 charging sessions each month, utilizing around 100 MWh of energy. The Volt Charge app has also gained traction, with more than 16,000 users reflecting the growing acceptance of digital charging solutions.
Dr. Beshan Kulapala, Co-Founder and CEO of Volt Charge, emphasized the importance of a trustworthy charging ecosystem for fostering EV adoption. He stated, “Our mission extends beyond the mere installation of chargers; we aim to establish a dependable, interconnected network that empowers EV drivers to navigate Sri Lanka confidently.”
The charging network is strategically designed to balance urban and outstation coverage, with about 60% of the chargers located in cities and 40% in rural areas and along highways. This arrangement caters to everyday city driving as well as longer journeys, particularly as EV ownership begins to rise outside major urban centers.
Strategic partnerships have been instrumental in enhancing access to charging stations. Volt Charge has collaborated with prominent corporations and hospitality brands, including Keells Supermarkets, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Dilmah, Jetwing Hotels, and City of Dreams. A notable partnership with John Keells CG Auto, the authorized distributor for BYD in Sri Lanka, has led to the acquisition of 4,000 chargers to support BYD vehicle owners. These collaborations ensure that charging facilities are conveniently located where people travel, work, shop, and stay.
The operational reliability of the network stands at over 99% uptime, bolstered by predictive maintenance, real-time online diagnostics, and established protocols for urgent maintenance. Any significant breakdowns or urgent repairs are addressed within 24 hours in Colombo and within 48 hours in outlying areas.
In addition to its physical infrastructure, Volt Charge has developed a technology platform aimed at enhancing the user experience. This platform facilitates real-time management of charging sessions, payment processing, journey planning, fleet management for corporate clients, and analytical tools for charging station operators.
Safety and engineering standards are also prioritized. The AC chargers from Volt Charge are TÜV Rheinland certified and tested in Germany, while the DC chargers have received certification from the EMTEK Group, a recognized authority in testing and certification. These certifications ensure compliance with international IEC standards, providing users and partners with confidence in safety, quality, and reliability. Additionally, the chargers have garnered international design accolades, underscoring Volt Charge’s commitment to engineering excellence.
Nishal Ferdinando, CEO of JAT Holdings PLC, remarked, “Volt Charge exemplifies the strategic evolution we are pursuing at JAT. We view diversification not as a fleeting expansion but as a measured approach to developing capabilities, creating infrastructure value, and contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s future economy.”
With an investment exceeding Rs. 250 million in the network thus far, Volt Charge reflects JAT’s ambition to cultivate long-term capabilities in sectors that align with national development goals, sustainability, and evolving consumer preferences.
From its initial position as a pioneer in a developing sector, Volt Charge has transformed into a key player in Sri Lanka’s EV infrastructure landscape. Its growth signals a broader transformation in enabling future mobility through dependable networks, robust partnerships, and ongoing investments in infrastructure that promote cleaner and more efficient transportation.
