The NRMA (National Roads and Motorists’ Association) has announced plans to test an off-grid EV fast charging prototype, marking an Australian-first initiative. The purpose of this prototype is to prepare for the deployment of off-grid EV fast chargers along remote routes, such as the Stuart and Eyre Highways.
This hybrid charging solution incorporates solar panels to maintain charge levels across multiple battery banks. Additionally, backup generators are included to enhance reliability. The system is scalable and can be expanded over time to meet the increasing demand for long-range EV driving.
The primary goal of this standalone off-grid solution is to connect and establish a national EV highway network, utilizing a self-contained hybrid system that is primarily powered by solar energy. This prototype will power up to two 75kW chargers across four charging bays, providing much-needed charge to drivers traveling long distances across Australia’s highway network.
NRMA Chief Executive Energy, Carly Irving-Dolan, emphasized the importance of off-grid technology in supporting the national EV highway network, particularly in regional and remote areas of Australia. Irving-Dolan said, “We’re proud to be working with Australian manufacturers and innovators to find power solutions where drawing from the grid is simply not possible.”
This initiative is part of the NRMA National Highway electric vehicle charging partnership with the Federal Government. The collaboration aims to establish 117 fast charging sites across the national highway network, ensuring Australian electric vehicle owners and overseas tourists on EV driving holidays have access to reliable charging infrastructure.
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