A new Kiwi-owned EV charging network called “Plug and Save” aims to simplify charging on the road.
Launching with three rapid charger locations in the Auckland and Waikato regions, Plug and Save says there’s no need for an account, app or charging fob with its network. Instead, EV users can pay to fast charge as they would for fuel or any other traditional purchase, using any payWave compatible eftpos, debit, or credit card.
Plug and Save says it can accept ApplePay or GPay via a payment-enabled mobile phone, and charging can also be activated using the Nova Energy app.
The new network uses efficient and fast DU-Power chargers which can charge two vehicles simultaneously at a combined rate of up to 160kW, so potentially charging a Tesla Model 3 standard range from 20% to 80% in under 20 minutes.
The units are among the simplest available for those new to EVs, says Plug and Save managing director Deon Cooper.
“Dropping the requirement to have an account, specifically the right account, simply to charge makes charging an electric vehicle so much easier,” he says.
“Almost everyone has a contactless payment card, which means you are always ready to charge with Plug and Save.”
Plug and Save also has specially designed shelters for its chargers, providing lighting for safety and to keep users dry while they pay.
“You generally don’t have to get wet when using a petrol pump, why should charging your car be any different,” Cooper says.
The network uses smart technology to avoid massive infrastructure costs often associated with installing fast charging stations.
Plug and Save units operate off a standard three-phase mains connection.
The DU-Power chargers incorporate a massive high-power internal battery pack manufactured without using cobalt metal and is topping up itself either constantly or when electricity is at its most affordable. It then discharges the internal battery when a vehicle connects to the charger.
“The cost to add such a connection to most locations is minimal,” Cooper says. “And in many cases, the three-phase power infrastructure is already in place.”
“With our clever technology, it also means that in times when power is down – such as a natural disaster – we can still offer a level of charging service to customers in their time of need,” he says.
“In some locations, sites could be expanded with additional units if required.
“This could be particularly advantageous during peak holiday periods or for special events.”
The Plug and Save team is taking expressions of interest from those wanting to host a unit.
“It is a great way to attract new customers from the growing pool of electric vehicle users,” Cooper says.
“And with our clever technology, the permitting and installation process is simple and cost-effective.”
Plug and Save chargers are at 281 Albany Highway in Rosedale on Auckland’s North Shore and 860 Te Rapa Road in Hamilton, with other sites pending.
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