AUSTRALIAN consumers have steered away from buying electric vehicles. Motorists travel large distances and know charging stations are few and far between, especially in regional areas.
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To remedy range anxiety, the NRMA is installing 40 fast-charging stations across NSW and the ACT.
READ MORE: NRMA plans for electric vehicles
On Thursday, they proudly opened a station at Berry Bowling Club.
“Australia is a bit of a laggard in picking up the electric vehicle,” NRMA CIO Rachel Wiseman said.
“There are two things stopping people from buying EV’s at the moment, one is the cost of the vehicle, that’s coming down, and range anxiety. People worry about running out of power.
“We need to get the infrastructure in, the automotive industry is changing.”
From 2019, on, manufacturers including Land Rover, Jaguar and Volvo will only be creating electric vehicles.
Next, the NRMA will roll out charging stations at Batemans Bay and Bega.
“Our ambition is to ensure people can take a road trip through NSW and ACT and not be more than 150km away from a charger,” Ms Wiseman said.
“We want to encourage people to stop in these communities, why wouldn’t you want to stop here?”
At the Berry station, it takes about 30 minutes to charge an electric car. NRMA members can use it for free.
Depending on their vehicle, motorists will then be able to drive 300 to 400km before they need to recharge.
Shoalhaven Mayor Amanda Findley, an advocate for electric vehicles, said it costs about $5 to charge her car.
The charging station will increase convenience for EV owners like herself. Instead of driving the 4WD to the Berry Show this weekend, she’ll be able to use her electric car.
Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis applauded the NRMA and Berry Bowling Club for installing a welcomed addition to the area.