Evie Summer Road trip EV Charging Tips & New RACQ Discount

Evie Networks has unveiled new road trip data for Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers preparing for their Christmas holidays, a period traditionally characterized by heavy traffic, elevated fuel prices, and potential EV charging congestion.

There's an early Christmas present cost of living relief for Evie using drivers in Queensland who are RACQ members as well. More details below.

The leading fast-charging network predicts EV public charging usage will nearly double this holiday season, with Saturday, December 21, and Sunday, December 22, 2024, expected to be the busiest days of the year.

To address the growing demand, Evie Networks has significantly expanded its EV charging infrastructure across Australia.

The company has increased its national sites from 200 to 278 (a 40% growth) and total national charging bays from 438 to 732 (a 67% increase) since last Christmas. Additionally, the network has seen an 83% increase in new drivers.

The company has made particularly notable progress in Queensland, expanding from 33 to over 60 sites (an 85% increase) and from 92 to more than 200 charging bays (a 124% increase) between 2023 and 2024.

A strategic partnership with RACQ (The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland) will further boost EV charging accessibility for Queenslanders.

The collaboration includes a co-branding initiative and member benefits program, with eligible RACQ members receiving a 4-cent per kWh discount on their first 1,000 kWh of charging annually.

To take advantage of the discount, members must link their RACQ membership number in the Evie app.

The discount is currently available at Evie Networks' public fast-charging stations across Queensland and Northern New South Wales. Soon, these charging stations will be co-branded with RACQ, making them easily identifiable for members.

Evie Networks CEO Chris Mills emphasized the timing of the partnership:

"Our collaboration with RACQ ensures Queenslanders have access to fast, convenient, and reliable EV charging infrastructure – perfectly timed for the summer holidays."

Mills also advised EV drivers to plan ahead for their road trips, highlighting the strategic locations of Evie's charging sites. "We encourage drivers to take regular breaks, especially on long-distance journeys. Our sites offer convenient locations with ample amenities, providing a great opportunity to stretch, refresh, and let children expend some energy."

The charging network has provided helpful insights for Queenslanders planning holiday travel:

- South East Queensland travelers can access 53 sites and 180 charging bays stretching from the Sunshine Coast to Plainland, through metro Brisbane, and down to Kingscliff in Northern NSW.
- For East Coast road trippers, Evie Networks recommends stopping at fast-charging sites including Noosa Village, Coochin Creek, Home Focus Pimpama, Tyndale, Cameron Park, and Tarcutta.

The partnership between RACQ and Evie Networks anticipates a further 28% increase in Queensland charging bays by May 2025, reflecting the growing EV market in the region.