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Almost 50,000 additional charging sessions were recorded on the RAA Charge network in the last 12 months, as regional road trips and interstate travel drove record demand.
Powered by 100% renewable energy, the network delivered enough electricity to directly power more than 28 million kilometres of EV travel last financial year.
By breaking down barriers to EV uptake, it also contributed to freeing up more than 10 million litres of petrol and diesel for other motorists – the equivalent of 278 fuel tanker trailers.
Burnside remained the network’s busiest charging location, but it was regional charging that demonstrated the growth in demand for the network, with charging sessions more than doubling at regional sites such as Burra, Clare and Renmark.
April recorded the strongest growth and was the peak month for interstate drivers using the network. Interstaters accounted for 20% of all sessions in April as Easter and Gather Round drove a surge in cross-border travel.
There are now approximately 24,000 electric vehicles on SA roads, with battery and plug-in hybrid EVs accounting for 32% of all new cars sold in June.
RAA Principal Advisor Energy and Future Mobility Peter Nattrass said the figures show electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly common sight on South Australian roads.
“It’s clear South Australians and visitors alike are relying on our charging network more than ever, whether it’s for the daily commute or a longer regional trip,” Mr Nattrass said.
“The growth is not simply coming from more chargers being installed, with established locations recording increases as more motorists rely on the network for longer regional road trips.
“The level of demand shows why a reliable statewide charging network is increasingly important not only for South Australians but for visitors travelling here for holidays and major events.
“With charging sessions up by almost 40% and delivered energy up by 47%, future planning will need to ensure charging capacity keeps pace with demand.
“A well-planned charging network doesn’t just benefit EV drivers, it supports fuel security, regional tourism and ensures South Australia motorists are well placed to choose the vehicle that is right for their lifestyle.
“Continued investment in charging infrastructure, by RAA Charge and other charge point operators, will be critical to keep pace with demand as the number of electric vehicles on South Australian roads continues to grow.”
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