New infrastructure will drive EV demand

With the launch last week of a new electric vehicle charger in Batemans Bay, there has never been a better time to go electric.

Last week the NRMA officially launched a new electric vehicle (EV) fast charger near the Batemans Bay Visitors Information Centre, adding to chargers at the Bower at Broulee, Micro Energy Systems Australia in Bodalla, Big4 Narooma Easts Holiday Park and Tesla-specific chargers at the Batemans Bay Soldiers Club, The Lodge Broulee Motel, Bodalla Dairy Shed, Narooma Plaza and Anchors Aweigh Narooma.

Eurobodalla Mayor Liz Innes said electric vehicles were the way of the future, and work to establish a national network of chargers was progressing slowly but surely.

“This issue we have currently is ‘range anxiety’ – people concerned about going on longer journeys and not having enough charge to get them there,” she said.

“With the new infrastructure being installed throughout the country, range anxiety is no longer an issue for more than 90 per cent of vehicle trips.”

Clr Innes said the range of many electric vehicles was up to 250km and over 500km in select models.

“Eurobodalla is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the growing number of people in Sydney and Canberra who are investing in electric vehicles,” she said.

“You could get about 150km of extra range from a 30-minute charge at one of these stations – and they’re mostly located in our business districts, which gives visitors time to explore our towns while their vehicles are charging.”

Council’s sustainability coordinator Mark Shorter said the benefits of EVs were many.

“Electric vehicles offer low/no emissions driving and cost about one fifth of the running costs compared to a standard vehicle,” he said.

“There are big picture benefits too – and not just in reduced carbon emissions.

“Australia spends over $50 billion a year on fuel imports and only retains about two weeks in reserve for emergencies. With more EVs on our roads, this money can stay in Australia and provide greater security and independence from imported fossil fuels.”