Genesis EV ‘energy roaming’ saves up to 70% on public charging

In a New Zealand first, Genesis has developed “energy roaming” for EV drivers, making it cheaper and easier to charge when out and about.

“EVerywhere” lets EV owners use ChargeNet’s 280 hubs throughout New Zealand for the same rate they pay at home, which can save drivers up to 70% on the cost of charging, eliminating the variability and uncertainty of public charging rates.

Based on driving an average of 25-30km a day, the cost of charging an EV is about the same as paying 30c per litre for petrol. An EV can be charged overnight for about $3 per 100km, depending on the model and electricity plan. A fast charge can cost up to $10 for 100km.

EVerywhere can be accessed through Genesis’ Energy IQ app, linking to a ChargeNet account. Owners are charged at their home energy rate, regardless of whether they use a fast, rapid, or hyper-rapid charger, with the cost added to their regular power bill.

The new approach was developed after customer research by Genesis found EV owners experienced several pain points when it came to recharging. In addition to range anxiety, they didn’t like the expense of charging at public stations.

EVerywhere was trialled over several months with 100 customers and the feedback was compelling, says Genesis chief digital officer Peter Kennedy.

“Once people had EVerywhere, they were more comfortable travelling further in their EVs,” he explains.

“In some cases we saw pilot customers try out public charging for the first time, and for those that had used it before they were now using more often.”

Kennedy says Genesis is keen to encourage the EV transition and has to think differently to resolve challenges for EV owners and those considering switching to EVs.

ChargeNet marketing and communications manager Bailey Gorst understands the need to reward Genesis customers making the switch to EVs, and to encourage those considering it, given the importance of decarbonising transport.

“ChargeNet is committed to providing and maintaining a world-class EV charging network to keep the country charging into the future, and to support New Zealand’s transition to a net zero emissions economy,” she adds.

“While EVs are already highly economical to run, EVerywhere enables EV drivers to consolidate their home energy use with Genesis and their EV charging with ChargeNet into a single bill. The discount is a cherry on top.”