As the number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the roads continues to increase in New South Wales (NSW), the existing network of fast car chargers is struggling to keep up with the growing demand. According to a report from the Electric Vehicle Council of Australia, EV sales in NSW have nearly doubled between 2022 and the first half of 2023.
Currently, there is a limited number of fast EV chargers along the NSW east coast, leading to long wait times for EV drivers during long trips. This issue becomes more pronounced as electric vehicles become a popular choice for drivers, with a significant increase in EV ownership across the country. In just the first six months of this year, Australia has seen the sale of 46,000 new electric vehicles, accounting for nearly nine percent of all new cars sold.
While most electric vehicles have a range of around 400-500 kilometers, which is suitable for daily commuting and local use, long-distance trips pose a challenge. Electric vehicle owners planning a vacation or long journey must rely on various apps and maps to locate the nearest and most suitable charging stations along their route. However, the lack of coordination between different organizations that control EV chargers can cause even more inconvenience for drivers, as each one requires a separate mobile app to charge.
A useful solution for electric vehicle owners to navigate this complex charging network is the PlugShare app. PlugShare gathers information from other drivers and includes most available electric vehicle charging networks. The app allows users to leave messages for other EV owners, providing real-time updates on charging station availability.
Despite efforts to improve the availability and accessibility of EV chargers, issues persist. News Of The Area recently observed that at least one charging station in Macksville was not operational. This highlights the need for quick maintenance and repairs to avoid disruptions for EV drivers.
As electric vehicle ownership continues to grow, it is crucial to establish and expand an extensive and well-maintained network of fast electric vehicle chargers along the NSW east coast. This will ensure that electric vehicle drivers can embark on long trips without fear of long wait times or non-operational charging stations.
FAQ
1. Why are more fast EV chargers needed along the NSW east coast?
The increase in electric vehicle sales has led to a higher demand for fast EV chargers. The existing infrastructure is struggling to meet the growing need, resulting in long wait times for electric vehicle drivers during long trips.
2. What percentage of new car sales in NSW are electric vehicles?
According to a report from the Electric Vehicle Council of Australia, electric vehicle sales accounted for nearly nine percent of all new car sales in NSW in the first half of 2023.
3. Are there apps or maps to help electric vehicle owners locate charging stations?
Yes, several apps and maps like Chargefox, Evie, BP Pulse, NRMA, and PlugShare provide information on the nearest and best charging stations for electric vehicle owners.
4. Can Tesla drivers use public charging stations?
Tesla drivers have the advantage of their own charging network, in addition to being able to use public charging stations. This significantly expands their options for charging their vehicles.