Going Electric
- Written by
- Deepika Sulekh
Imagine driving in the future, today. Electric transport has been the talk for decades, but now, it’s happening.
The recent placement of fast car chargers in town have sparked some interest and got us thinking. More and more people are driving electric vehicles thanks to efficiencies like these in technology and infrastructure. Plus, these new chargers have given our drivers confidence to make the switch and enjoy its many benefits.
The infrastructure
Technology is developing fast. An efficient battery, manufacturing process and even recycling and disposal have made using electric vehicles a breeze. Although they’ve known to be around since 1850, the last 20 years have seen huge developments, especially in battery technology.
New Zealand already has the technology and infrastructure to get started. You may have seen the fast charger next to the fire station on Kaimanawa Street, and soon we’ll have two more popping up at Z stations in Taupo and Turangi. Fast car chargers are 25 times faster than your power socket at home, giving you a full tank in approximately 10 – 20 minutes. But it’s actually cheaper and easier to charge your vehicle at home by plugging it in overnight in your garage. With potentially more chargers coming to supermarkets, malls, shopping centres and tourist spots, accessibility will be even easier.
The biggest win is the reduction in carbon emissions and positive environmental impact. Over 80% of New Zealand’s electricity comes from renewable sources, which is the best way to power our vehicles, no exhaust fumes and engine noise. Because of the absence of petrol, driving an electric vehicle produces 80% less carbon dioxide emissions – improving the health of pedestrians, cyclists and anyone who uses the roads.
Give it a go
There’s already around 3200 electric vehicles on the road, and that figure’s doubling every year. With so many options now available, the convenience of charging, ease of maintaining and of course, environmental benefits, it makes sense – electric is the way to go.
- 20 moving parts compared to over 2000 for a normal car, maintenance is a breeze!
- Instant acceleration
- Easy charging, plug it in to your normal socket at home overnight and you’ll have a full tank in the morning.
- Cheaper to run, equivalent to paying 30 cents for petrol.
- No exhaust fumes so no pollution.
Thinking about the switch? Here are some useful links for more info:
www.electricvehicles.govt.nz
www.driveelectric.org.nz
If you want to find a public charger near you, go to www.plugshare.com.