28 July 2015

NEWS RELEASE

Electric vehicle charging stations go live in Downtown Auckland

The first-ever public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in the Auckland CBD have gone live thanks to a partnership between Mighty River Power and Auckland Transport.

With the rapid growth in ownership of plug-in electric vehicles, Mighty River Power CEO Fraser Whineray said the charging stations would allow motorists to fuel-up free with ‘home-grown’ renewable electricity – a cheaper and cleaner alternative to imported fossil fuel.

“There is a compelling proposition for all of us and for New Zealand in supporting the uptake of renewable electricity as a transport fuel. It’s made right here, costs less than 30 cents per litre, and takes about 2 tonnes of carbon out of the environment for every EV on the road every year.”

Mr Whineray said Auckland had the highest rate of EV ownership, and public charging stations were important for consumers to be confident they can fuel-up when they need to – internationally this infrastructure has been a key enabler of growth. Another key to ongoing growth is the expanded variety of plug-in car models in New Zealand which will enable the development of a healthy local second-hand market. Many organisations are now bringing EVs into their fleets, recognising the economic and environmental benefits.

“Working with organisations like Auckland Transport (AT) to install chargers in prominent parking areas is a great way to show the momentum and positive change beginning in New Zealand’s transport fuel mix, making the city’s air cleaner.

“This is one of the initiatives we have underway to stimulate the rollout of public charging infrastructure across New Zealand. Of course, most EV charging will take place at home or businesses as New Zealand has a very high rate of off-street parking.”

Along with being the first in the CBD, the two charging stations in the Downtown car park are a first for Auckland Transport and can be used free-of-charge by anyone who parks in the building.
“Downtown Carpark was a natural choice with more than 2,000 vehicles through the building every day. This will make a real contribution to our work towards a cleaner, healthier Auckland,” said Auckland Transport’s Parking Services Manager, Russell Derecourt.

“This is another exciting step forward for EV owners in New Zealand’s largest city.” Mr Derecourt said AT was pleased to be able to join Mighty River Power’s strong leadership through the ‘Take Charge’ campaign, encouraging the adoption of EVs in New Zealand.

The charging stations are 7kW chargers, suitable for any plug-in vehicle to top up or fully charge. They are located on the ground level of the Downtown Carpark near the Customs Street exit.

ENDS.

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