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More than 2,300 EVs were sold last quarter in South Australia, according to the Australian Automobile Association’s EV Index, meaning approximately 15-16,000 EVs are now on SA roads.
With data from SA’s border-to-border EV network, RAA Charge, showing a 32% uplift in regional charging sessions in summer months compared to winter – it all points towards this summer being the biggest season for EV road trips in SA to date.
The RAA Charge network comprises 144 charging sites and more than 550 charging plugs in SA – with 75% of these located in regional areas and 98% located within 200km of each other.
Charging locations such as Ceduna, Bordertown, Tintinara, Pimba and Peterborough, among others, are playing a crucial role for interstate travellers and those driving long distances, with each delivering some of the highest average energy per session.
RAA Principal Advisor Energy and Future Mobility Peter Nattrass said charger availability remains strong, with the network designed to handle seasonal surges.
“We’re seeing more electric vehicles on the road than ever before, and drivers are now heading to our incredible SA regions with confidence thanks to the increase in charging infrastructure,” Mr Nattrass said.
“The majority of charging sessions are happening during the early afternoon, where cheaper daytime rates and high renewable energy generation are encouraging drivers to top up and save along their route.
“Our charging sites have been strategically placed along tourism routes and close to amenities like cafes and shopping centres, so stopping off for a quick coffee or meal while your car charges is a common practice.
“We’re also seeing a clear weekend surge, which tells us EVs are increasingly being used for road trips, tourism and longer journeys rather than just weekday commuting.
“Even with this record usage, the network is performing strongly, and drivers are still finding good availability across our regional sites.
“If you do want to avoid peak periods, try and arrive a bit earlier in the morning, but the Chargefox app will give you an idea of which sites have good availability as you’re approaching.
“When driving it’s always a good idea to take a break every two hours – so stop off where there’s a charger, plug in, stretch your legs and grab a coffee.”
RAA members also now save 10% per kWh on the RAA Charge network – with Ts and Cs available on the RAA website*.
EV drivers can locate a charger and check availability before they arrive using the Chargefox app.
More than 235,000 charging sessions have now been completed with the RAA Charge network – powering 31,895,444 kilometres of EV travel.
Mr Nattrass said while the RAA Charge network would cater for the current number of EVs, more charging infrastructure would be needed to service the approximately five million that will be on Australian roads by 2035, to achieve the Australian government’s proposed 62% to 70% national emission reduction target.
RAA’s 2026 State Election platform, Growth Without Gridlock, calls for the development of an EV charging infrastructure grants program for small businesses and local governments, targeting regions and tourism hotspots.
For more on the network visit raa.com.au/charge. *Offer available to RAA members only for a limited time, and subject to change. Conditions apply, see raa.com.au/ev-charging-stations. A valid RAA membership number must be added prior to commencement of charging session. Minimum $1 charge applies. Not available in conjunction with any other offer, discount or promotion.
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