Friday, March 3, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

New EV Charging Point On Capricorn Highway

The Queensland Electric Super Highway (QESH) now has a new charging site at Dingo, contributing to the state's net zero emissions target and connecting regional electric vehicle (EV) users. The growing network of charging stations in the state’s inland highway provides greater options for Bowen Basin residents to travel to more inland destinations using electric vehicles.

Since its launch in 2017, over 90,000 vehicles have been charged on the QESH, saving between 2,064 to 2,422 tonnes of CO2 compared to similar petrol or diesel vehicles.

Dingo joins a growing network of public charging sites including Blackall, Barcaldine, Charleville, Cloncurry and Longreach, with Stanthorpe set to open later this month.

The QESH will consist of at least 54 public fast charging sites across the state once phase three is completed, linking rural and regional areas of the state and creating tourism and economic development opportunities.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said EV ownership in Queensland is growing.

“Queensland's battery EV fleet, which includes passenger cars, buses, trucks, motorcycles, and light vans, has doubled in just one year with about 8,500 additional battery EVs registered in the state,” he said.

“This brings the total number to more than 16,300.

Mr Bailey said the Dingo charging site is a significant milestone and demonstrates the investment Queenslanders are making in EVs.

"This is critical as it provides confidence to EV drivers who live in regional Queensland and who take longer trips,” he said.

“We are continuing to open new sites across the state, providing connectivity between regional communities and enabling more Queenslanders to join the EV revolution.

“The State Government continues to deliver on its commitment to connect EV drivers and has invested $9.13 million into the QESH to date.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey. Photo supplied

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