Charging network aids EV use

A nationwide highway of fast-charging stations will help address one of the main obstacles to New Zealanders buying electric vehicles (EVs), transport minister Simon Bridges says.

BMW Group New Zealand has announced it will partner with Charge Net NZ to stimulate the installation of a network of fast-charging EV stations. More than 100 stations will be installed across the country.

“A big barrier preventing households and businesses from choosing EVs is the limited availability of public charging infrastructure. Increasing the number of charging stations will give New Zealanders the confidence to use EVs for longer distance travelling,” Bridges says. There are currently just over 30 fast charging stations in New Zealand and more than 100 other public charging stations. However, long distance travel on battery alone still causes “range anxiety”, Bridges says. “This initiative to grow an electric highway of fast charging stations is a great example of the innovation and partnership approach that needs to happen to help us meet our target of 64,000 EVs on New Zealand roads by 2021. "Now we want New Zealanders to consider choosing an EV as their next car, given the confidence they can have in the supporting infrastructure.” Developing guidelines for public charging infrastructure is one of the 14 initiatives the Government announced in May as part of its electric vehicles programme.

Bridges says he has asked his agencies to support councils and the private sector in developing public charging infrastructure, by providing clear guidance and information, and by clarifying the regulatory framework.

I expect to make an announcement about this soon,” he says.