South Australians will be able to get behind the wheel of an electric vehicle and take it for a spin around Adelaide, as part of the RAA electric vehicle (EV) Drive Experience at this year’s Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC).
For the first time, there will be 10 different EV brands available for event goers to book and test drive, including models from BYD, BMW, Porsche, MG, Ford, Nissan, Hyundai and Kia.
The event comes following recent data analysed by RAA showed EV car sales in South Australia represent 6.1% of all new cars being sold.
The RAA EV Drive Experience will provide South Australians with an opportunity to get behind the wheel of an EV and learn about the technology driving the future of sustainable transport in South Australia.
At the RAA marquee there will be a team of experts on hand to talk to event goers about EV charging at home and out on the road, and how to prepare for an electric future with advice on installing solar and battery solutions for your home.
Other event highlights will include talks from a range of climate, energy, and EV experts in the Cruiser Pavilion along with food trucks and entertainment.
RAA Chief Executive Officer Nick Reade said the RAA Drive Experience is the perfect opportunity for people to test drive an EV and become more familiar with the vehicles that are shaping the future of our transport.
“The BWSC is the ultimate proving ground for EVs and charging technology, and by working together we can help give people a first-hand look at this burgeoning technology,” Mr Reade said.
“With EV sales doubling year on year, RAA is proud to be building South Australia’s first border-to-border EV charging network,
“Already reaching its 50 per cent milestone, the RAA Charge network has provided almost 3,000 charging sessions since March this year.
“Once complete, the network will span across 140 locations – helping solve range anxiety for EV drivers and ensuring the charging infrastructure is keeping in pace with the growing number of EVs on our roads.”
The rollout of RAA Charge network, South Australia’s first border-to-border EV charging network – now more than 50% complete – is also playing a pivotal role in addressing range anxiety and barriers to purchasing an EV.
The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge Village in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga will open on Thursday, 26 October, with the RAA EV Drive Experience taking place from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 October.
South Australians can sign up for their fully charged drive experience from today by visiting RAA EV Drive Experience – Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2023 | Humanitix