New South Wales-based global EV charging company Jolt will roll out a network of free and fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers around New Zealand.
Jolt already boasts EV charging networks in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. On Wednesday, it said that it will start rolling out free EV chargers in New Zealand also. The roll out will start in July in a partnership with trade hardware store chain Mitre 10.
Jolt will install the first EV chargers at Mitre 10 stores and retail locations in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Long-term plans include hundreds of chargers over the coming years across the country.
EV owners in New Zealand, as in its other service areas, will have access to 7kWh of free charging per day using the Jolt app. Drivers can pay via the Jolt app, if after that, they need to charge for longer.
“We are selecting charger locations based on where it is most convenient for EV drivers within the urban areas, so we don’t disrupt their routine,” said Chris Monaghan, Jolt’s New Zealand country manager.
“Drivers pull up, plug in, and are on their way in 20 minutes, receiving up to 7kWh free per day, saving over $1,000 a year by charging with Jolt.”
Renewably powered EV chargers
The Jolt EV charger network is also powered 100% by renewable energy. This utilises a combination green-certified wind and solar energy which is then independently audited by GreenPower.
Jolt installs its EV chargers with modern advertising screens that allows another revenue stream to pay for the cost of the charger and the electricity needed to power the charger.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.