Supermarket giant Coles will roll out electric vehicle charging stations at up to 30 locations across Australia as part of a two-year initiative designed in partnership with Evie Networks, Australia’s largest fast-charging network.
Coles and Evie Networks announced the partnership on Monday with the launch of the first of 30 new electric vehicle (EV) charging sites, located at Coles Middle Camberwell in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
The site now boasts two Kempower dual-plug charging stations with up to 200 kW shared across four charging bays.
More charging sites will go live throughout the remainder of the year across both Victoria and Queensland including at new Coles stores being opened at Orana Village and Beveridge in Victoria and Annerley in Queensland, and the existing Milton Village location in Queensland.
The rollout is designed make EV charging more convenient for customers by allowing them to top up their battery while they shop – “helping make charging part of the regular grocery routine”, according to Coles. This also represents Coles’ recognition that EV charging is playing an increasingly important role in customer convenience.
“We know EV drivers are looking for convenient charging options at destinations they already visit, with charge times that align with the time they spend there,” said Jane Mansfield, Coles head of energy.
“By partnering with Evie, we’re helping build a more accessible charging network and giving customers another reason to choose Coles when planning where to shop.
“As we continue to roll out up to 30 sites over the next two years, we’ll be looking at sites where EV uptake is growing and where more charging infrastructure is needed, helping ensure our store network evolves with changing customer needs and the shift to EVs.”
Coles customers can find and access the charging sites through the Evie app which enables them to view charger availability, start a charging session, and manage payment.
“EV drivers are looking for charging that fits naturally into their day and supermarket locations are a perfect example of that,” said Chris Mills, Evie CEO.
“This partnership is an important step in expanding access to fast charging at selected Coles supermarkets across Australia, supporting more drivers as they make the switch to EVs.”
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