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South Australia’s first border-to-border electric vehicle charging network is powering ahead, as RAA completes a total of 26 Rapid and Ultra-rapid charging sites across the state, unlocking some of the state’s iconic regions in time for the summer holiday period.
The RAA Charge network is now 75% complete and comprises of 105 charging sites and 367 charging points across the state.
RAA Chief Executive Officer Nick Reade said the installation of the Rapid and Ultra-rapid charging sites is going to be a game changer for anyone planning a long-distance road trip over the Christmas / New Year break.
“From Adelaide to Streaky Bay, Yorke Peninsula and the Riverland, down to Mount Gambier in the South East, South Aussies will be able to hit the road this summer and have peace of mind that they can recharge along the way in as little as 10 to 40 minutes,” Mr Reade said.
“Just as we did 120 years ago, we’re solving ‘range anxiety’ for motorists and helping unlock South Australia’s regions for EV drivers.”
The construction milestone has unlocked Rapid and Ultra Rapid charging for six long-distance road trips in South Australian tourism regions.
Minister for Energy and Mining, Tom Koutsantonis said, “The traditional Australian Summer road trip is changing; EV drivers can look forward to hitting the road with confidence to explore what our great state has to offer.
“EVs will be the vehicle of choice for South Australians and the network we’re building with RAA will help facilitate that transition, removing ‘charging anxiety’ while connecting our regions.”
At a time when the cost of petrol is putting additional pressure on the cost of living, driving an EV from Adelaide to Streaky Bay will set drivers back around $90 in energy, compared to more than $300 in petrol.
“We know EVs aren’t right for everyone just yet, but the cost to charge makes a compelling case for those who are ready,” said Mr Reade.
“Driving an EV is quickly becoming one of the lowest cost ways to get around our beautiful state, and with new EV models coming onto the Australian market from $38,900 – there really has never been a better time to consider owning an EV,” he said.
The cost to charge an EV with a 64kW battery and a driving range of about 480km using the 150kW Rapid or 200kW Ultra-rapid chargers, is between $22 and $26.
In comparison, it currently costs more than $100 to fill a similar size car with a 50L internal combustion engine with petrol.
Once complete in 2024, the RAA Charge network will comprise of 140 charging sites – including 54 Rapid and Ultra-rapid charging locations – and more than 500 charging points across the state, with 75% of these charging sites located in regional areas.
The RAA Charge network is being rolled out with the support of a $12.35 million grant provided by the Government of South Australia.
To locate your nearest charger, initiate charging and complete payment, download the Chargefox app.
To learn more about the network, visit raa.com.au/charge