Evolt Charging, a part of SWARCO Smart Charging, announced an exclusive partnership with CatStrap – EV Cable Protector. Evolt is now the sole UK distributor for CatStrap’s robust anti-theft cable solution. Crucially, this agreement directly addresses the rising nationwide challenge of EV charger cable theft and vandalism, a problem that poses a substantial threat to the UK’s public charging infrastructure rollout.
Repeated cable theft incidents cost Charge Point Operators (CPOs) across the country significant money for replacement, repair, and increased security. The low resale value of the copper drives this theft. Therefore, Evolt’s introduction of CatStrap provides CPOs with an immediate, proven, and cost-effective defense against this persistent issue.
A Critical Barrier to Electrification
EV cable theft in the UK is a serious operational challenge. It undermines the reliability of the public network and erodes the confidence of EV drivers.
“Charger cable theft affects all UK CPOs, and every stolen cable comes with significant costs to replace and repair,” says Seamus O’Dwyer, Operations Performance Director at Evolt Charging. “It is a serious issue, and one that has the potential to derail the EV charging roll out and undermine investment.”
The industry continues to call for government recognition of EV chargers as critical national infrastructure. However, CPOs need immediate solutions to secure existing assets now. CatStrap is already a proven deterrent in high-theft areas globally, and its deployment directly supports this immediate security need.
The Robust Anti-Theft Solution
The CatStrap – EV Cable Protector is a proprietary armored sleeve. It specifically deters, resists, and frustrates cutting attempts. CatStrap is already deployed across more than 1,000 charging stations worldwide, and the system features a unique composition that delivers superior protection:
- Triple-Layer Steel: The system utilizes three layers of steel strip. This steel is four times harder than stainless steel.
- Armored Design: The proprietary design incorporates aircraft-grade cable for maximum resistance.
- Proven Durability: Rigorous real-world testing by Evolt proved the CatStrap resists most handheld cutters. Additionally, it keeps the cable 90% intact after up to three minutes of continuous cutting with powered tools. The patented internal steel-layer movement actively frustrates cutting tools, which prevents quick or easy severing.
Furthermore, the protector’s Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) fibre sleeve ensures flexibility and shape memory. This material adds minimal weight while offering increased durability.
Securing UK Charging Infrastructure
Evolt’s exclusive distributorship ensures quick and consistent deployment of this vital protection system across the UK market. Specifically, the CatStrap EV Cable Protector is designed for quick, simple installation. It also seamlessly integrates with existing cable management systems on all tethered EV chargers.
“We are committed to supporting CPOs with innovative and durable solutions that help to deter and prevent further cable theft,” Mr. O’Dwyer added. “We are pleased to have exclusively partnered with CatStrap to bring their innovative solution to the UK market.”
David Birsen, Vice President of CatStrap, emphasized the importance of the partnership: “After protecting thousands of public chargers across North America in high-theft areas with virtually 100% success, we’re excited to extend that protection to UK operators. Evolt’s nationwide service capability, operational excellence, and expertise in charge point hardware make them the ideal partner.”
The joint objective is clear: the companies aim to curb EV cable theft, secure public charging infrastructure, and ultimately ensure reliable, safe access for all UK electric vehicle drivers.
