EV DC rapid charging plug type set to change

ChargeNet NZ has announced a forthcoming change to its DC fast charging network from a Type 1 CCS charging plug to the Type 2 CCS charging plug.

BMW Group New Zealand and ChargeNet NZ entered into an agreement in 2016, to support the installation of over 100 DC rapid chargers across the length of New Zealand.

Both parties were involved in the extensive industry consultation, which has resulted in the MIA and NZTA announcing the new recommended EV charging standard for New Zealand.

The companies say European designed and manufactured vehicles are leading advances in EV technology and availability, so adopting a European standard for the New Zealand charging infrastructure ensures compatibility with the most modern technology from Europe.

“New Zealanders are innovators and move swiftly to keep pace with change so upgrading to the Type 2 CCS plug is a good move” says Steve West, chief executive of ChargeNet NZ.

“Our company vision is, and has always been, to encourage the uptake of as many electric vehicles as possible”.

BMW Group New Zealand managing director Florian Renndorfer welcomes the new charging standard.

“The change to Type 2 CCS plugs across the ChargeNow electric highway is a positive step, improving our country’s infrastructure and allowing even faster charging when travelling the length of New Zealand in electric vehicles.”

ChargeNet NZ will begin modification of its charging infrastructure to the new plug standard, on a rolling basis. The changeover will commence in the South Island in mid-April 2017, and the North Island from May 2017.

It is expected that by replacing the existing Type 1 standard with the European Type 2 CCS (Combined Charging System) standard, New Zealand rapid chargers will have access to a wider variety of vehicles that could not otherwise utilise the country’s rapid charging infrastructure.

Given the early stages of infrastructure development, the timing to adopt this new standard has been agreed by ChargeNet NZ and BMW Group New Zealand with such companies such as Vector, Unison, WEL Networks, Orion and other affected parties.

If you are planning a trip or using one of the ChargeNet or Vector stations please check plug type at charge.net.nz and chargenow.co.nz/my/station.