**Electric Cars Power Fish and Chips Giveaway on Kent Seafront in National Celebration**
In an inventive twist on a much-loved British ritual, a fish and chip shop in the coastal town of Deal, Kent, has become one of the first in the country to deep-fry its fare using power sourced directly from electric vehicles. The unique event marked National Fish and Chip Day on 6th June, and saw hundreds of locals and tourists tucking into complimentary chips—with battered fish also on offer for as long as supplies lasted.
What set this year’s seaside feast apart was its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Rather than relying on traditional gas or mains electricity, The Blue Mermaid Fish Bar collaborated with car manufacturer Dacia to fry up portions of the national favourite using energy from two Dacia Spring electric cars. The project was further boosted by the presence of Destiny Harold, better known online as the ‘Chip Shop Diva’, whose culinary energy helped draw a crowd and added to the day’s celebratory atmosphere.
The spectacle came on the heels of a new survey of 2,000 adults across the UK, commissioned by Dacia, which found fish and chips to be the number one food treat Britons crave when holidaying at home. In fact, the love of this iconic dish runs deep, with many associating it with seaside holidays, nostalgia, and simple, shared pleasures.
During the event, around 300 portions of free chips were handed out to passers-by on Deal seafront. This gesture aimed not only to satisfy hungry customers but also to demonstrate the capabilities of the Dacia Spring, which makers describe as the UK’s most affordable electric car. Its innovative “vehicle-to-load” function allowed the car’s battery to power the fryers without the need for any conventional infrastructure, offering a glimpse of how small businesses might utilise automotive technology in the future.
Speaking at the event, a Dacia spokesperson expressed their delight at bringing two British passions together—fish and chips, and forward-thinking technology. “It was wonderful to treat the community today and showcase the practicality of electric cars for powering everyday activities. National Fish and Chip Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate such a beloved tradition, now given a modern twist.”
The accompanying study underscored the enduring emotional connection between Britons and their favourite holiday food. Forty-one per cent of those surveyed cited nostalgia as a key reason for their enjoyment, while nearly half admitted to feeling a distinct sense of satisfaction after indulging in a portion of fish and chips. The dish was dubbed the ‘food of the people’, with 44 per cent believing that it transcends social boundaries.
Food psychologist James Cornish weighed in on the findings, remarking: “There are few foods as beloved and unifying as fish and chips. The meal’s appeal lies in its comforting simplicity—it is humble, but often exceeds expectations, invoking fond memories and a sense of community.”
The survey also highlighted other quintessential British holiday treats, with Mr Whippy ice cream, cream tea, hot doughnuts, and Cornish pasties featuring alongside strawberries and cream, chip butties, and fudge in the nation’s top twenty. This array of comfort food encapsulates the essence of the traditional UK seaside experience.
While the fusion of traditional fare and modern electric innovations may have seemed unconventional, the response from the public was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the initiative’s environmentally friendly approach and heartening spirit. By allowing customers to enjoy their favourite holiday food with a reduced carbon footprint, it is hoped that such projects may inspire further sustainable adventures on the British coast.
As the hospitality sector continues to adapt to changing consumer expectations and environmental demands, Deal’s electric-powered chip shop stands as a shining example of how the UK’s best-loved traditions can be preserved—and even enhanced—by embracing technology and creative thinking.