THE new EV charger at Kara Park, Piopio. PHOTO SUPPLIED
THE Lines Company’s (TLC) latest Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station located in Piopio will see drivers benefit from fast charge times. Located on SH3 at Kara Park, the newest edition to TLC’s fleet of EV chargers across the network delivers an essential service for EV drivers in the King Country. This brings the total to four fast charging units and across 40 standard AC charging units within its network region with the help of from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s (EECA) Low Emission Vehicle Contestable Fund. TLC acting GM of network Craig Hackett said EV technology is changing rapidly with more DC type vehicles now on the road. “Fast charging vehicles are becoming increasingly common on our roads and highways. “We’re catering for these drivers by building a fast charge network with chargers located on main streets for convenience. The lines business installed the first three chargers in Ōtorohanga, Taumarunui and Ohakune in 2021, with additional fast chargers due to be commissioned in Waitomo and Whakamaru in coming months. “The new DC fast chargers are so quick,” Craig said. “Drivers can expect an 80% charge to take only 15 to 25 minutes depending on the vehicle’s specifications.” The Ministry of Transport reported as of March 2022 there were 38,177 registered EVs on New Zealand roads, with the predictions that EVs will make up 40% of the national vehicle fleet by June 2040. Like all TLC chargers, the new fast charger at Piopio features the OpenLoop mobile app payment facility. Charging vehicles using the DC fast chargers is charged at DC rates.
