EV industry conference charges on

Establishing an effective EV charging strategy is key, say two Kiwi charging experts.

About 250 EV charging stations have been established New Zealand-wide with more Hyperchargers (high-power multi EV chargers) coming, ChargeNet NZ founder and chief executive Steve West told more than 70 people at The EVent – the EVs and Beyond EV industry conference on Waiheke Island on April 12 and 13.

Aaron Gillon of YHI Energy also explained how EV charging infrastructure can be adapted to meet customer needs, suggesting businesses need to plan ahead for EVs and involve all parties in the process.

Other speakers included Martin McMullan of Mobli, Zilch zero-emission car share executive director Kirsten Corson and Jeremy Rooke of Turners Subscription

Discussion included a move away from providing a vehicle, fuel and a work car park as part of a salary package and instead offering e-mobility alternatives such as an EV subscription, public transport subsidies, an e-bike or similar incentives.

Smart charging, simple billing systems and portable charging were also covered.

Businesses were encouraged to get stuff buy-in to introducing EVs to fleets and that a charging plan is essential to determine how EVs are used and to optimise fleet use while keeping within budgets.

The conference wrapped up with Lincoln University lecturer Helen Fitt outlining her project about using EVs for long distance tourism, Richard Heaps of PowerTrip explaining his app and how smart software increases EV efficiency, and Tim Allan of UBCO talking about the Tauranga-based electric utility motorbike’s success and subscription platform.

The next EVs and Beyond Conference is planned on February 21 and 22, 2022.