Jolt enters NZ EV fast charging market

Australian-based global EV charging company Jolt will in July start rolling out a fast EV charging network around New Zealand, offering the first 7kW free.

The first 25kW EV fast chargers will be installed at Mitre 10 stores and retail locations in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch this year.

Jolt’s national partnership with Mitre 10 will see the first charger sites go live in July with plans for hundreds of chargers to be rolled out over coming years New Zealand-wide.

EV drivers will have access to 7kW of free charging daily at Jolt fast chargers, providing about 40km to 50km range depending on the type of vehicle.

Jolt reckons the charging service model helps solve major barriers to EV uptake such as access to charging, cost and range anxiety.

“Jolt is investing in New Zealand as there is strong momentum within the market to change to an EV,” says Jolt chief executive and founder Doug McNamee.

“Through our partnerships with leading retail brands and local government in New Zealand, we want to create a large and leading EV charging network that provides the best charging experience for all EV drivers in New Zealand.”

Jolt New Zealand country manager Chris Monaghan says: “Jolt is investing and developing an urban focused EV fast charging network that will align with local and central government climate emissions targets and help increase the uptake of EVs in New Zealand.

“We are selecting charger locations based on where it is most convenient for EV drivers within the urban areas so we don’t disrupt their routine.

“Drivers pull up, plug in and are on their way in 20 minutes, receiving up to 7kWh free per day, saving over $1000 a year by charging with Jolt.”

“The promise for EV drivers is urban, highly visible and convenient EV fast charging that provides 7kW of free charging every 24 hours,” Monaghan explains.

“With fast DC EV charging, drivers can enjoy the retail facilities of our partners and then go about their day. An EV driver can charge for free every day which takes about 20 to 25 minutes or choose to charge over the free charge at (one of) the lowest charge rates in New Zealand.”

Mitre 10 chief legal and property officer Grant Fraser says: ”If we are to make a real and sustainable impact, public and private sector partners must collaborate more to find solutions. The Mitre 10 co-operative is proud to be contributing to New Zealand’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions through this partnership with Jolt.”

Fraser says about 29 of Mitre 10’s 84 locally owned stores will have Jolt charging stations installed over time.

“Mitre 10 customers will be able to plug in their EVs for a free top up while they are doing their shopping.”

Jolt offers both of New Zealand’s standard connectors (CCS2 and Chademo) to power all EV vehicles. “If your car uses a different type of charger, please bring a designated adapter,” it says on its website.

 In its frequently asked questions section Jolt says it has an app to find its nearest charger but the company is not taking charger bookings or reservations and does not offer RFID tags at this stage.

Jolt adds that everyone is eligible for the free 7kWh EV charge up regardless of whether they choose to pay for additional charging after that.