NEWS26 March 2025
When Ralf Kernchen founded Reserve & Charge in March 2023, he wasn’t just launching a business—he was tapping into a powerful entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Today, over 80% of the company’s shareholders are members of the SETsquared Surrey community, including mentors, past and present incubator members, community members, and S100 Club investors. This remarkable level of support demonstrates why SETsquared Surrey is the ideal place for ambitious founders to grow their ventures.
Reserve & Charge is revolutionising the way electric vehicle (EV) drivers access charging points with its seamless reservation system, removing uncertainty and improving the overall charging experience. Concerns about charging reliability remain a major barrier to EV adoption, with a recent AA survey finding that 22% of drivers would never purchase an EV due to concerns about charging infrastructure (source: thetimes.co.uk).
By leveraging the SETsquared Surrey network, Reserve & Charge has not only secured investment but also gained invaluable strategic guidance. “The expertise, mentorship, and connections within SETsquared have been critical in taking our company from concept to reality,” says Ralf. “This isn’t just about funding, it’s about being part of a community that truly supports innovation and growth.”
Real-world impact and expansion Reserve & Charge’s success story is a testament to the power of the SETsquared Surrey ecosystem. Its first user trials in the West Midlands, funded by the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT), validated the reservation system and led to a contract extension with Transport for West Midlands. This structured six-month project is now refining the technology for broader use. With backing from SETsquared mentors and investors, the company is further developing predictive analytics to optimise charging facilities. By analysing charging data, operators can better understand peak demand and future needs, improving station efficiency. Additionally, Reserve & Charge is supporting government initiatives to expand residential charging, ensuring fair access for EV users without off-street parking.
Ralf concludes: “Reserve & Charge is leading the transition towards a smarter, more accessible EV charging network. Thanks to SETsquared Surrey’s support, we are scaling faster and making a real impact in the EV industry.”
For start-ups looking to grow, Reserve & Charge’s journey is a shining example of how the SETsquared Surrey ecosystem fosters success through investment, mentorship, and community collaboration.
To learn more about how SETsquared Surrey can support your business, visit SETsquared Surrey or explore Reserve & Charge’s innovative solutions at Reserve & Charge.