RAA looks to the future with SA charging network
In the next two years, RAA will install 536 electric vehicle (EV) charging points at 140 new locations across South Australia.
RAA has engaged Chargefox, Australia’s largest EV Charge point operator, as its primary contractor to assist with the roll out.
In addition to RAA’s investment the State Government has provided a $12 million grant to build the statewide EV charging network.
This will see charging points available in regional centres, tourist destinations, Adelaide suburbs, and along highways.
RAA Managing Director Ian Stone said the statewide charging network was a historical moment in the transition to EVs.
“RAA believes EVs are the future of motoring, and our research shows almost 80% of motorists would consider buying an electric vehicle,” Mr Stone said.
“Most charging points will be within 200km of each other with a maximum distance between them of about 250km – well within the range of a typical EV car battery.
“We know that drivers’ enthusiasm for EVs is curbed by the availability of charging points, so this new network will go a long way to allaying that range anxiety.”
The charging network is just one way RAA’s demonstrating its commitment to EVs. It opened the first ultra-rapid EV charging points in regional South Australia in association with Chargefox and has added EVs to its vehicle fleet.
RAA recently launched a range of household fast-charging EV outlets and established an Electric Vehicle Working Group to engage stakeholders.
RAA President Peter Siebels said that as a mutual organisation representing more than 780,000 members, RAA was well placed to understand drivers’ needs, concerns and barriers to the take up of new technologies.
“RAA’s involvement in this project is testament to our commitment to sustainability and the future of our state,” Mr Siebels said.
“We look forward to being involved in more of these initiatives as we move toward our greener future.”