Australian start-up, Chargefox has raised A$15m (US$11m) to start building Australia’s largest open, ultra-rapid network of charging stations for electric vehicles.
The funding has come from a combination of sources including investment from The Australian Mobility Clubs (NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAC, RAA and RACT), Wilson Transformers and the founder of Carsales, Greg Roebuck, as well as grants from Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and the Victorian Government.
These ultra-rapid charging stations will be open to all EVs and charging time will be quicker, with up to 400km of range delivered in 15min. The chargers will be capable of power output of at least 150kW and up to 350kW, which will be the fastest of any charger currently available in Australia.
“Chargefox is committed to sustainable mobility,” said Chargefox CEO, Marty Andrews. “Our network of ultra-rapid charging stations will play a significant part in improving the infrastructure of this country and remove one of the major barriers that limits the adoption of EVs.
“The charging stations will enable all EV drivers to drive between Australia’s major cities.”
In the initial roll-out, Chargefox plans to secure 21 locations for the network and the first stations in Euroa and Barnawartha North, Victoria.
Drivers can now download the Chargefox App and find hundreds of charging stations available across Australia and New Zealand.
The Chargefox App also allows consumers to use and pay for charging via their mobile phone.
Marty added, “Chargefox has a vision one day 100% of road transport will be powered by renewable energy and from day one, our ultra-rapid chargers will be accessible to all Australian drivers.”
