As part of the statewide Electric Vehicle Fast Charging Network, the SA Government installs over electric vehicle charging stations at over 600 sites.
Minister for Energy and Mining Dan van Holst Pellekaan said the SA Government’s $13.4 million investment into the charging stations will resolve the energy issues drivers face with their electric vehicles.
“Following consultation, we’re now able to extend the network further across regional and remote South Australia, including getting more charging stations in key tourist areas in the Adelaide Hills, Mid North, Far North, Eyre Peninsula and Limestone Coast,” Minister van Holst Pellekaan said.
Since electric vehicles lower motoring costs, air, noise and carbon pollution, Minister van Holst Pellekaan said that fast-charging stations in regional and remote areas in the state will remove the fear of running out of power.
“The Marshall Government’s aim is for electric cars to be the preferred choice for households and businesses by 2030, and the default choice by 2035,” Minister van Holst Pellekaan said. “We want to make sure motorists know they can buy an electric car, and still enjoy the pleasure of travelling our highways and byways without fear of being stranded.”
The SA Government said they will increase the use of renewable energy for vehicles while reducing its reliance on imported oil with the installation of fast chargers. The fast chargers will support the needs of Adelaide’s motorists.
“The South Australian Governments is already incorporating 70 plug-in vehicles into its fleet with additional orders soon to be made as part of the new procurement policy which will see the whole fleet transition in coming years,” Minister van Holst Pellekaan said.
Transport in South Australia contributes to 30 per cent of the state’s total greenhouse gas emissions. By shifting to electric vehicles, transport costs will be lowered, emissions will be cut down and pollution will be reduced. These actions will increase public health, environmental and economic benefits.
RAA Mobility Technology Specialist Mark Borlace said their surveys showed a lack of regional electric vehicle chargers. This became a significant disincentive to buying an electric vehicle.
“The rollout of electric vehicle charging stations, as advocated by RAA, is welcomed and will increase the uptake of these environmentally friendlier technologies,’’ Technology Specialist Borlace said. “RAA supports the government’s desire to lead the nation in the uptake of electric vehicles and smart charging by 2025 and reduce electricity costs for all South Australians.’’