Boost ahead for EV breakdowns

The AA is preparing to expand its electric vehicle (EV) charging breakdown service following a successful trial in Wellington.

An AA Battery Service van was launched in July last year and has given EVs in the capital a roadside boost about two to three times a month on average.

The van is fitted with a lightweight EV charger that takes about 20-25 minutes to put enough power back into a vehicle’s battery to allow motorists to drive up to 10km and get home or to a nearby charging station.

Mandy Mellar, AA battery service general manager, says the service for AA members was introduced to help curb “range anxiety”.

She describes the response to the van as fantastic and adds there are now plans to expand the service to other areas, with details of where and when to be announced at a later date.

“We launched the service in Wellington as it’s home to the highest number of EVs per capita,” explains Mellar. 

“After a successful trial, and with the heightened interest in EVs since the clean car discount came into effect, we know more Kiwis will be looking forward to having this service available for peace-of-mind.”

The van is available to AA members between 7am and 11pm every day at no additional cost. At other times, or outside of Wellington, the AA currently provides a tow to members whose EVs break down.