JOLT will install a network of fast chargers starting in July in New Zealand and plans to have 500 more in the next four years.
In July, Australian-based EV charging company JOLT, partnered with Mitre 10, will install a network of free chargers across New Zealand. The first EV chargers will be installed in Mitre 10 stores and retail locations in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, with hundreds more to follow in the coming years.
EV owners will have free access to 7kW of charging per day at JOLT’s chargers via the JOLT app, providing around 40-50 kilometers of range, depending on the EV. Users would have to pay in the app if they wanted to charge more than that.
With JOLT’s free charging, drivers can save more than $1,000 per year.
Doug McNamee, Jolt’s CEO and founder, said that he is excited about the partnership with Mitre 10 in meeting the country’s carbon emission targets. “Through our partnerships with the leading retail brands and local government in New Zealand, we want to create a large and leading EV charging network that provides the best charging experience for all EV drivers.”
Jolt’s New Zealand country manager, Chris Monaghan, stated that the company was building a network that would help the country meet local and national climate pollution targets by increasing the use of electric vehicles.
“The promise for EV drivers is urban, highly visible, and convenient EV fast charging that provides 7kW of free charging every 24 hours. With fast DC EV charging, drivers can enjoy the retail facilities of our partners and then go about their day.” Monoghan said.
Mitre 10’s chief legal and property officer Grant Fraser said they are excited to work with JOLT. He noted that the public and private sectors should work together to make a sustainable impact. “The Mitre 10 co-operative is proud to be contributing to New Zealand’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions through this partnership with Jolt,”
JOLT’s project isn’t relying on government subsidies. It is funded by BlackRock and the Real Assets Renewable Energy Fund to invest in Aotearoa.
The chargers will also be powered by 100% renewable energy, with a combination of ‘green-certified’ wind and solar energy audited independently by GreenPower.
