Hornsby Shire Council in Sydney is inspiring the next generation of clean technology advocates by installing a toy EV charger in one of its local playgrounds.
“I came across this gem on the weekend. Hats off to Hornsby Shire Council for incorporating an EV charger (fully equipped with mini solar panel) into their newly developed playground on Sefton Road, Thornleigh.” posted Evie Networks CEO Geoff Brady on LinkedIn.
“While over half of Australian drivers are considering an EV as their next car, that percentage increases materially if there are kids in the household!” said Brady.
“These small but powerful advocates understand the importance of a clean and sustainable direction for transportation and small additions like this are important signals to re-enforce their message.”
The toy EV charger was custom made for Hornsby Council by Moduplay, an Australian maker of kids playground equipment.
Brady also took the opportunity to plug Evie Networks real life DC fast charger nearby.
“Note: If they are looking for the real McCoy, there is an Evie DC fast charger at Dural St car park Hornsby.”
The Driven contacted Hornsby Shire Council to find out what prompted the inclusion of an toy EV charger in the playground.
“During the engagement process for the Hawkins Hall project, a member of the public wrote to us suggesting we include a more environmentally friendly aspect of the learn to ride than the traditional petrol filling station.” said a council representative.
“We loved this idea and worked with our playground manufacturer to produce a bespoke model EV charging station for the upgraded park. We’re delighted by the positive response from the community to this new addition.”
For full sized vehicles, Hornsby Shire Council says it is endeavouring to support the community to drive more sustainable vehicles, having facilitated the installation of a number of EV charging stations across the Shire.
“We also recently amended our Development Control Plan to ensure EV readiness in new developments. Our controls now include a mandated minimum of one EV-ready connection for each dwelling-allocated car space to ensure practical, safe and compliant access to charging infrastructure across low, medium and high-density residential and commercial developments.”
Daniel Bleakley is a clean technology researcher and advocate with a background in engineering and business. He has a strong interest in electric vehicles, renewable energy, manufacturing and public policy.