Expanded charger network makes long-range drives easier.
With summer around the corner, a number of Kiwis are choosing electric vehicles (EVs) for their classic road trips this sunny season, and Z Energy’s (Z) expanding charging network is making it even easier for EV drivers to explore the country with 135 charging bays at 46 service stations currently available.
“When I first started with an EV five years ago, even the idea of a road trip took a lot of planning because there weren’t many chargers around,” said Mandy Simpson, general manager for strategy, delivery and innovation at Z. “But now, the availability of infrastructure has improved massively, making it possible for people to take those classic road trips with a lot more confidence. I think Z has played a big role in making that happen.”
Recent Motor Industry Association registration data shows a surge in EV uptake, with 874 Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) hitting the road in September, marking a 48% increase on this year’s monthly average for registrations.
Simpson said Z’s charging network is expanding as demand grows, with dependability and usability being front of mind. “Reliability is key for EV drivers. If you arrive with a low charge, you want to know the charger is ready. That’s why we focus on installing reliable, fast and easy-to-use chargers.”
As the number of EVs on New Zealand roads increases, select Z sites now have multiple charging bays to avoid drivers having to queue for a single spot. For Northlander Gerald Gates, going electric was an easy choice, and the expanding network of charging bays has made family road trips even easier.
“It’s ideal for long trips,” he said. “On a recent trip, we covered 3800km from Northland to Christchurch via New Plymouth, with no worries about finding charging stations along the way.”
With a range of treats to keep you going on offer, Z stations are designed to be a one-stop shop for drivers to refuel and recharge.
“When you're on a road trip and charging, you're stopping for somewhat longer than you would with petrol. So having coffee, food and clean restrooms right there at Z makes the stop easy and enjoyable. By the time you've done that, you’re back to the car and pretty much ready to go again,” said Simpson.
You can locate your nearest Z EV charger with Z’s website, app or on Google Maps. Z’s app and Google Maps will even show the charger’s availability.
Simpson encourages drivers to plan their routes with charging stations in mind. “With Z’s chargers strategically placed along popular routes, we've made it easier for drivers to map out their journeys with EV charging in mind,” she said.
Gates agrees, noting that a little preparation goes a long way, though he’s found far less planning is required than before. “It used to be a bit of a mission. Not anymore.”
As EVs become more accessible, Simpson is optimistic about the future of electric travel. “EVs are evolving quickly. They’re getting more affordable and offering better ranges than what was on the market several years ago, which will make even longer journeys a realistic choice for most Kiwis. We’re excited to support that future.”
With Z’s chargers at select sites ready to keep them charged, the classic Kiwi summer road trip is looking easier than ever.
Download the Z App to make planning your own EV road trip even easier.
