EV stations for city’s CBD

The first public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in Auckland’s CBD have gone live thanks to a partnership between Mighty River Power and Auckland Transport. With growth in ownership of plug-in EVs, Fraser Whineray, chief executive officer of the power company, says the new facilities allow motorists to fuel-up free with renewable electricity. “There is a compelling proposition for all of us and for New Zealand in supporting the uptake of renewable electricity as a transport fuel,” he says. “It’s made here, costs less than 30 cents per litre and takes about two tonnes of carbon out of the environment for every EV on the road every year.” Whineray adds Auckland has the country’s highest rate of EV ownership and public charging stations are important for consumers to be confident they can fuel-up when they need to. Another key to ongoing growth is the expanded variety of plug-in models in New Zealand, which will enable a healthy local second-hand market to develop. Many organisations are now bringing EVs into their fleets, recognising the economic and environmental benefits. “Working with organisations such as Auckland Transport to install chargers in prominent parking areas is a great way to show the momentum and positive change beginning in New Zealand’s transport fuel mix, making the city’s air cleaner,” adds Whineray. “This is one of the initiatives we have under way to stimulate the roll-out of public charging infrastructure across New Zealand. Of course, most EV charging will take place at home or businesses as New Zealand has a very high rate of off-street parking.” Along with being the first in the CBD, the two charging stations are a first for Auckland Transport and can be used free of charge by anyone parking there. “The car park was a natural choice with more than 2,000 vehicles through the building every day,” says Russell Derecourt, Auckland Transport’s parking services manager. “This will make a real contribution to our work towards a cleaner and healthier Auckland, and is another exciting step forward for EV owners in New Zealand’s largest city.” Derecourt says Auckland Transport is pleased to join Mighty River Power’s leadership through its Take Charge campaign to encourage the adoption of EVs in New Zealand. The stations are suitable for any plug-in vehicle to top up or fully charge. They are located on the ground level of the Downtown Carpark near the Customs Street exit.