Evie Networks opens first ultra fast charging station in South Australia

The development of EV charging networks around Australia took a significant step forward on Wednesday, with the opening of Evie Networks first ultra-fast EV charging station in South Australia.

Evie Networks opened the first of four South Australian ultra-fast charging stations on Wednesday, its second in partnership with Tasco Petroleum, and an important milestone in opening up travel for EV owners between Adelaide and Melbourne.

Located just over an hour out from Adelaide, the new Tailem Bend ultra-fast charging station appears to be the eighth of Evie Networks’ ultra fast stations – building on three Queensland stations, two in New South Wales, one in Victoria, and one in Tasmania which linked Hobart and Launceston and which was rolled out in August.

“Our mission is to give EV owners the freedom to travel anywhere and we’re excited to give drivers of all available EV models the confidence to explore South Australia’s historical and beautiful Limestone Coast,” said Evie Networks Chief Executive Officer Chris Mills.

“Approximately 100 kilometres east of Adelaide, Tailem Bend is a popular rest stop conveniently located at the junction of the Dukes and Princes Highway. (It is also located near a 95MW solar farm of the same name).

“With our 350kW chargers powered by 100% renewable energy, drivers can be charged and back on the road in 15 minutes or take a longer break and enjoy the iconic banks of Australia’s Murray River.

“The Evie Networks’ app helps EV drivers plan their trips around our 24/7 ultra-fast, safe and convenient on-site amenities and also provides drivers with a secure payment facility.”

The roll-out of Evie Networks’ ultra-fast charging network is backed by the St Baker Energy Innovation Fund’s contribution of $35 million and accompanied by $15 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of its Advancing Renewables Program, which was awarded in August 2019.

Founded in 2017, Evie Networks’ aim is to build Australia’s largest EV fast charging network. Each station appears to have two ultra-fast charging units, according to the company’s website, meaning EV owners can charge their vehicles at the 350kW chargers and add a range of up to 350km in 15 minutes (depending on the type of EV in question).

Evie Networks’ fleet of charging stations utilise chargers built by Australian manufacturer Tritium which, just like Evie Networks, is partly owned and backed by Australian coal baron Trevor St Baker. Each station appears to have DC 50kW fast chargers as well as the headline DC 350kW ultra-fast chargers.