Australian transport fuels giant Ampol has unveiled two new electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure upgrades in Sydney’s West, including its first drive-through charging bays and two state-of-the-art ABB 400kW EV chargers.
Ampol, which supplies Australia’s largest branded petrol and convenience network, launched its AmpCharge EV fast-charging network in early 2022 with plans to roll out 120 EV charging sites over the first 18 months of operation, backed by a $7.05 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).
While it is unclear as of writing exactly how many AmpCharge locations there are now across Australia – the company had previously complained of network delays for a slower than expected rollout – two new sites have just been opened on the M4 Motorway in Sydney’s West.
The newly redeveloped dual Ampol Foodary Eastern Creek service centres, located on each side of the M4 now feature 10 new AmpCharge EV charging bays each, including four drive-through charging bays, a first for the AmpCharge network.
Drive-through EV charging bays are designed to allow for larger commercial vehicles and EVs with trailers.
Two new state-of-the-art 400-kilowatt (kW) EV chargers from ABB have also been installed as part of the West-bound site, another first for the network and representing some of the fastest EV chargers in Australia.
Such EV chargers will be increasingly important for the rollout of EV charging infrastructure across the country so as to provide for heavy EVs that require quicker turnarounds, and for new electric cars with faster charging systems.
“The installation of the M4 AmpCharge charging hubs in addition to ABB’s A400 chargers installed at our Westbound site is a significant step forward in our commitment to build a fast, reliable, and convenient EV charging network for our customers,” said Patrick Luxton, Ampol general manager for the energy value chain.
Sean Stove, ABB e-mobility division manager for the APAC region, said the A400 chargers represent the future of EV charging, particularly for heavy vehicles.
“By providing fast and reliable charging solutions, we are helping to support the electrification of transportation in Australia. This project has showcased ABB’s technical expertise and fast execution.”
On hand to celebrate the milestone upgrades was federal minister for climate change and energy, Chris Bowen, who is also the federal member for the electorate of McMahon, which includes Eastern Creek.
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.