The NRMA (National Roads and Motorists’ Association) is set to revolutionize electric vehicle (EV) charging in remote areas of Australia with its Australian-first off-grid EV fast charging prototype. This innovative solution will enable long-range road trips across the country, not only for Tesla drivers who have been at the forefront of remote Australian EV driving, but for all brands of long-range electric cars.
The off-grid charging system utilizes a hybrid approach, harnessing the power of solar panels to maintain charge in multiple battery banks. To ensure enhanced reliability, the solution also incorporates backup generators. This standalone hybrid system can be expanded over time as demand and usage increase, enabling it to connect and build the national EV highway network.
The remote energy solution will feature up to two 75kW chargers across four charging bays. This will provide much-needed charging facilities for drivers traveling long distances on Australia’s highway network. Carly Irving-Dolan, NRMA Chief Executive Energy, emphasized the importance of this off-grid technology in supporting the national EV highway network across regional and remote Australia. The NRMA aims to ensure that EV drivers can freely travel throughout the vast country without concerns about charging availability.
By leveraging renewable energy, which is abundant in central Australia, the NRMA aims to overcome the unique challenges presented by the Australian landscape for EV infrastructure. This approach not only connects remote communities but also makes EV accessibility a reality for all Australians.
Through its partnership with the Federal Government, the NRMA plans to establish 117 fast charging sites across the national highway network, providing certainty of charge for Australian electric vehicle owners and overseas tourists on EV driving holidays. This ambitious endeavor is a testament to the NRMA’s commitment to sustainable transportation and its dedication to finding innovative power solutions to ensure no community is left behind in the transition to EVs.
Sources:
– NRMA (National Roads and Motorists’ Association)