New EV technology supercharges electric vehicles

New charging technology will drive Queensland's EV plans.

New (EV) charging technology has debuted on the Gold Coast, with the first charger installed at Broadbeach according to the City of Gold Coast website.

The Tritium RTM75 EV 75 kW charging stations will be rolled out across locations in Broadbeach, Coolangatta, Southport, Pimpama, Carrara, Bundall and Nerang. The company says the technology is a world-first.

The 75 kW DC fast charger is 50% faster than 50 kW chargers and can charge two vehicles simultaneously, delivering 75 km of range to an EV within 10 minutes of charging.

Mayor Tom Tate said the advanced RTM75 technology would showcase the City as an innovative destination, committed to a greener future.

The 75 kW system can be scaled up to 150 kW as more users choose EV transport.

“As the transition to electric vehicles begins to pick up pace, we have secured the most advanced DC fast chargers on the market,’’ he said.

“The power used to charge vehicles at these stations will be offset by power generated by the City’s Virtual Power Plant, which harnesses solar energy from more than 47 City buildings.”

The 10 charging stations will be installed within a 50 km radius of each other, to provide electric vehicle drivers with necessary infrastructure as well as catering to anticipated demand.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Steven Miles said the Queensland Government had provided $350,000 towards the charging stations, to provide a boost to the local economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are supporting more jobs in more industries and it’s good to see the installation of the charging station will support around 14 jobs across the Coast,” Miles said.

“These new charging stations also complement the Palaszczuk government’s Electric Super Highway and provide further reassurance for EV drivers.

“Having charging stations along the Gold Coast not only incentivises future EV users, but it also encourages driving tourism along a beautiful stretch of the Coast.”

This COVID Works for Queensland project is a joint initiative of City of Gold Coast and the Queensland Government.

Fast facts

• The Gold Coast is the first location worldwide to launch Tritium’s new RTM75 technology.
• The 75 kW DC fast charger is 50% faster than 50 kW chargers and can charge two vehicles simultaneously.
• 10 stations will be installed across the City, from Pimpama to Coolangatta.
• In 2019 electric vehicle sales increased by 200% in Australia.
• Power to charge EVs at stations is offset by the City’s Virtual Power Plant.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/jdoms