Roadside power boxes set to charge EVs

Hundreds of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are set to spring up across an Australian city under plans to convert roadside electricity distribution boxes into spots where motorists can charge their cars.

Ausgrid, a New South Wales electricity distributor, has joined forces with a start-up called JOLT to create a network of charging stations around Sydney’s suburbs.

About 2000 of Ausgrid’s power distribution boxes have been identified as suitable for conversion to charging stations. Ausgrid and JOLT are working with local councils to make the charging stations operational.

The sites will offer motorists up to 15 minutes of free charging per day, which is the equivalent of seven kilowatt hours, and this will deliver a range of about 45km in most vehicles. 

Drivers wanting a longer charge time at each site can pay a fee via an app, or they can drive to another station.

Doug McNamee, chief executive of JOLT, claims a lack of charging infrastructure is a barrier to EV uptake and he hopes his company’s venture can help change that situation.

“Our network of on-street fast chargers will help reduce vehicle ownership costs, eliminate range anxiety and provide charging options for those that don't have access to charging at home,” he adds. “This in turn will help speed up the transition to the widespread use of electric vehicles.”