The New Zealand Automobile Association (AA) has welcome the launch of 'game-changing' app EVRoam which will give full-electric (EV) drivers peace of mind in knowing exactly where their next charge is coming from.
EVRoam is a live database which collects data directly from all New Zealand’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure providers, such as ChargeNet and Vector.
Created by the NZ Transport Agency in collaboration with industry partners, EVRoam will maximise the profile of available charging infrastructure though dozens of existing apps and maps, such as the Transport Agency website, the NZ Automobile Association website, and the ChargeNet app.
“We’ll be displaying up to date information in a live display through AA EV Charge Finder, which will enable drivers to plot their journey between charging stations," said AA Motoring Services General Manager Stella Stocks
"It removes all the stress for EV drivers, who will know whether a charge point is online with absolute certainty."
“Currently there are nearly 9,000 Kiwi EV drivers and that number is expected to increase. The AA has an important part to play in providing information that all drivers can use to make informed decisions for the future.”
AA hailed today’s launch by Associate Minister of Transport Julie Anne Genter as a world-leading collaboration.
“By working together we have achieved a safe secure system which gives New Zealanders a massive advantage on the road to an EV zero carbon future,” Stella added.
ChargeNet CEO Steve West sees the enormous benefits that this newly launched software provides to EV owners.
“When ChargeNet was founded it was done so with the primary goal of increasing the uptake of electric vehicles by providing a reliable, nationwide charging network. EVRoam supports us to this end by finally providing drivers with reliable, real-time, information about charging locations across the country,” said Mr West.
“This stops the need for consumers to rely on potentially unreliable crowd-sourced information, which means a better consumer experience for our customers.”
“Being able to access information about the chargers - where they are, what makes and models they support, and whether they’re operational or not makes it easy for EV owners to plan their journeys and helps to remove range anxiety.” he added.
“The standard that EVRoam is setting is that our nationwide charging network should be smart, and monitored for reliability by operators. We know how important reliability it is to our customers. Smart, monitored chargers allow us to let drivers know they can arrive at a station they can use.”