The NSW Government’s recent funding partnership with Viva Energy to install electric vehicle chargers at select Shell petrol stations is a game-changer for the Australian electric vehicle market.
One of the biggest hurdles for electric vehicle adoption has been the scarcity of charging stations across the country. While efforts are underway to address this, the lack of charging options near rest stops remains a significant concern.
Businesses have a golden opportunity to integrate charging infrastructure with rest facilities, food, and beverages. Petrol stations, with their widespread presence and existing amenities, are ideal locations for this transformation. Expanding these stations to include charging points could revolutionise electric vehicle usage nationwide.
Viva Energy is leading the charge in rethinking electric vehicle charging. In a partnership with the NSW Government, they’re set to develop 30 EV charging stations across their Shell-branded network in NSW. This initiative, funded partly by the government, aims to provide reliable and fast charging options, easing range anxiety for drivers in urban and regional areas.
Sandra Lau, head of hydrogen and electric vehicles at Viva Energy Australia, is at the forefront of this movement. With a background in problem-solving and engineering, she’s leading efforts to create customer-centric solutions in the electric and hydrogen vehicle space.
Viva Energy’s New Energies Service Station Project exemplifies this commitment. By partnering with customers, it showcases the potential of hydrogen vehicles in decarbonising various industries. This forward-thinking approach extends to its plans for the largest hydrogen refuelling centre, which will cater not only to hydrogen trucks but also electric trucks with high-power chargers.
The collaboration with the NSW Government is pivotal in this endeavour. These charging stations will feature solar panels and batteries, ensuring emission-free power for EV drivers. With a focus on convenience and efficiency, each site will offer at least four ultra-fast charge points, supplemented by sustainable grid energy.
Despite challenges in power supply, Lau sees immense potential for collaboration among businesses to overcome these obstacles. Integrating EV chargers into petrol stations is a strategic move, leveraging their widespread network to provide drivers with peace of mind regarding charging availability on the road.
Ultimately, it’s about getting people to their destinations quickly while offering essential services like food, beverages, and convenience items. By combining these offerings with EV charging, Viva Energy is paving the way for a smoother transition to electric vehicles, empowering drivers to embrace a greener future.
For the latest retailer news and information, check out the ServoPro website or to speak to us about how we can help your business contact us.