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SEPTEMBER 2021
PORSCHE ABB P. 03
PERFORMANCE POWER
Drive your business forward with
1 EVS ANDCall Steve
BEYOND Owens
SEPTEMBER 2021 now on 021 947 752
| WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ
TRYING TIMES By Geoff Dobson,
Editor
W
hether Auckland’s latest lockdown drags on and slips.
should be known by now, and few will be more Insurance claims have been pouring in ever since the
pleased than Auckland’s EV dealerships once latest floods, expected to run into many millions.
restrictions ease.
Speaking of floods, you can expect many more EV
What promised to be a record month for EV sales models to start arriving in New Zealand shortly due to
has been dented by the COVID-19 Delta restrictions, demand and in response to the Government’s Clean Car
although some Auckland EV dealers have legally found scheme and other incentives.
ways to still get deliveries out.
A large proportion will be new EVs as supply constraints
Henry Schmidt from EV dealership Autolink Cars and other factors hit the used EV market, prices of new
in Newmarket got an exemption to avoid the road EVs also dropping in many cases and making them more
blocks near the end of the southern motorway and appealing to EV buyers.
got contactless deliveries to clients in Tauranga, New
It’s not just COVID impacting the market – the
Plymouth and Taupo. He sold the EVs before Auckland’s
semiconductor shortage remains, shipping costs have
level 4 restrictions applied but once areas south (and
gone up and getting EVs here could still be an issue for
later north) of Auckland moved to level 3 Schmidt and his
a while.
team got the EVs to places like Hampton Downs where
they could watch from an appropriate distance while the You can read more about all that in this issue.
new owners got the keys left with their cleaned EVs and Plus we commemorate World EV Day on September 9,
drove off. the event run by ABB and Green.TV Media with Polestar
It’s all a bit trying for EV dealers trying to keep up with also coming on board.
demand and run their businesses though, even with World EV Day is designed to promote the role of EVs in
COVID subsidies. the transition to net zero and decarbonisation.
And to make matters worse for some – especially those It’s also helping build a sense of urgency prior to the 26th
out west Auckland way, particularly Kumeu – along UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26)
came serious flooding which hit many automotive repair in Glasgow on October 31-November 12 where you will
and service businesses including a firm specialising in hear more about the transport transition away from
batteries. fossil fuels.
The flooding closed roads and saw the evacuation EVs and Beyond also commemorates the establishment
of about 60 households in the middle of level 4 of a media partnership with EVolocity which aims to
restrictions. encourage more Kiwis to understand and embrace EVs,
It’s the worst flooding I’ve seen in more than 40 years mainly through its programme for high school students
of covering the west Auckland region for various media. to design, build and test two and three-wheeled EVs.
In the 1980s I was a media liaison officer for West While on partnerships, one of our foundation sponsors
Auckland Civil Defence when then mayor Tim Shadbolt ChargeNet has done a deal with a Swiss-based global
declared an emergency – the first there in about 100 energy company to expand ChargeNet’s network here
years - during heavy rain which luckily stopped within and overseas.
millimetres of many streams breaking their banks. Some You can read about what it means in this issue.
areas had already been evacuated because of flooding
Geoff Dobson
EDITOR
2 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ
ELECTRIFYING PERFORMANCE
P
orsche is looking to a future that is
electric, and it is on a rapid path. With
charging partner ABB it is preparing
for an increasing range of electric vehicles.
In a special podcast – available on podcast
platforms now and the EVs and Beyond
YouTube Channel – managing editor Richard
Edwards sat down with Porsche New
Zealand general manager Greg Clarke and
ABB solutions specialist Debbie van der
Schyff to discuss the future of performance
cars and what will be powering them.
Porsche has been on the electrification path
for some years now. The Panamera saloon
went plug-in hybrid in 2014, and the plug-in
Cayenne SUV launched in 2014. But the big
step arrived for the brand this year when
the all-electric Taycan arrived.
And it seems Kiwis love the idea of an
electric Porsche.
“The Taycan has been a revelation for us, space. The vehicle is also a little bit higher we’ve also got existing customers. We've
Clarke says. “It has been incredibly well off the ground. So it's a bit more practical had people come from other electric car
received in New Zealand and as anyone if you like depending on the usage. We've brands to the Porsche brand with the Taycan.
who's driven the car will know, it is a true got our very first one in the country now and Of course in our sector of the market, quite
Porsche. A performance sports car,” Clarke by the end of the year we will have 10 to 12 often, it isn't the client's only vehicle. So
says. of those in the country – it is proving very they may also have a 911 say for example.
popular.” Something that's more of their weekend toy.”
“Worldwide Taycan sold over 20,000 units
within the first six months of the year. And Clarke says the Taycan is really just the start Clarke says some have called the Taycan
in New Zealand alone, we've got 82 on the for the brand, with much more to come. Next a four-door electric 911. That suggests it
road up to the end of August. That's quite will be the Macan compact SUV which will go must be capable of hitting a racetrack?
impressive when the price of the car, starts full electric. Porsche NZ put that to the test earlier this
at $173,000 and goes north of that.” “We are just starting this journey relatively, year, running it alongside their ICE range at
but I think it's a journey that will continue for Hampton Downs.
The Taycan range is currently expanding,
with the addition of the Taycan Cross some time.” “Without a doubt, of the 440 people that
Turismo, a station wagon crossover version Already electric is proving its benefit to the attended that event, one of the biggest
of the Taycan. brand, proving popular with both existing comments you ever got back was "I cannot
customers and those new to Porsche. believe that Taycan is a genuine Porsche. It
“The layout allows a little bit more headroom
is a genuine sports car.” Clarke says.
in the rear of the car and a bit more luggage “We've got new customers to the brand,
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“With that in mind we do look forward to the
future. It absolutely proves that you can, I
suppose, have your cake and eat it too.”
So does that mean the future is entirely
electric for the performance car market?
“By heading in the electric direction or
growing the electric offering, we are, of
course, staying more relevant,” Clarke says.
“One thing that may lengthen the use of
combustion engine vehicles is the advent
of the e-fuels. So the non-fossil fuels that
have cleaner burning capabilities.
“But very definitely, the VW group, which
Porsche is part of, has very much decided
that the electric revolution is the direction
to go. The legislation around the world
is all taking us in those directions, both
internationally and here locally. So it's
common sense to be on that journey.”
POWERING THE PERFORMANCE
With a high performance car comes high
performance charging needs. Porsche has
opted for an 800 volt battery system in the
Taycan, allowing for higher levels of both
charging and discharging.
Accordingly, they are fitting the charging
infrastructure at dealerships to match.
The brand is the first to have access to DC
charging at each one of its dealer facilities.
In fairness there are only four Porsche
dealerships in the country, but that is still
impressive.
The specific hardware is also high
performance, with ABB Terra HP’s system
in use (more about this charger later in
the story!). ABB and Porsche have a global
relationship for charging hardware, so at a
local level the use of these high-tech units
make sense.
ABB solution specialist Debbie van der
MISSION R
Schyff says the Terra HP is such a great
unit for dealerships – or any installation – A prime demonstration of Porsche's move
because of its modularity. The post and its to electrification is the Mission R concept,
cable can be on display, while the power revealed at the IAA Mobility show in Munich,
cabinets can be hidden away. Germany after our interview.
It is also modular from a performance The Mission R is an electric race car, that
perspective. some have speculated could be a future
replacement for the popular 911 GT3 one-
“Porsche’s units run at up to 175kW
make racing that goes on around the world.
currently, but you could add an extra power
cabinet and charge at up to 350kW without It can dispatch the 0-100kmh sprint in just
much change in infrastructure.” 2.5 seconds, with a top speed in excess of
300kmh.
Why have charging at the dealership?
Its two electric motors deliver up to 800kW,
“We want to have the ability for customers to
and with an 80kWh battery and an innovative
just pop in and get a charge while they come
recuperation system, Porsche says sprint
into the dealership. You've got cars that
races will be able to be run with no need to
are being serviced that may need a charge.
reduce performance to go the distance.
And you've also got obviously new vehicles
being prepared all the time that need to Using 900 volt charging, from a unit like an
be charged. So while you won't always be ABB Terra HP, the R needs only 15 minutes
charging on a high speed DC charger, having to go from 5% to 80% between races.
the ability, and the option there, is a great WHAT IS TERRA HP
benefit to the client. And if I'm honest that So what is the Terra HP? It is a high-power
will also give you the ability to see how user DC charger increasingly popping up in
friendly a electric vehicle can be. And that's installed away from the main power cabinet
New Zealand, particularly at dealership
the big thing.” hardware. That makes for a more practical,
installations where flexibility is required.
space efficient installation - particularly
Why? Because the charging post itself can be
Continued on page 6...
4 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ
EDITOR
EVS AND BEYOND
Geoff Dobson
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...Continued from page 4
in locations where the look of the unit is
important.
On top of that, the Terra HP is flexible. With
ABB Dynamic DC power sharing technology,
power cabinets can be connected to charge
one vehicle at up to 350kW or two vehicles
simultaneously at up to 175kW.
For cars like the Taycan, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and
Kia EV6 that have 800 volt battery systems,
the Terra HP is capable of up to 920 volt
charging, while still offering charging as
low as 150v - allowing it to cater to a broad
range of vehicles.
A cable retraction system makes the unit software additions and payment options. of 100kW charging at peak, and even with a
more user friendly, making the long, liquid- The team at EVs and Beyond have yet to try cold battery we saw impressive rates, taking
cooled, cables easier to use. a Taycan on a Terra HP, but we have tried on 24.5kW, going from 22 to 78% of the
It is available with custom lighting, graphics, a Peugeot e-208. The Peugeot is capable 50kWh battery, in just 27 minutes.
SWISS INVESTMENT IN CHARGENET WILL
ACCELERATE EV CHARGING GROWTH
K
iwi EV charging network ChargeNet independent energy and commodity groups
has signed a deal with global energy in the world.
trading company Mercuria, which has Its investment is not only instrumental in
acquired a 20% stake in ChargeNet. enabling ChargeNet to deliver a future-
Mercuria’s investment provides ChargeNet proofed New Zealand charging network but
with the capital required to accelerate also provides ChargeNet with a pathway to
significantly its growth strategy, delivering extend its global reach and drive growth in
a superior nationwide EV charging network other countries.
ahead of growing demand, says ChargeNet Mercuria’s strategic investment in
chief executive and co-founder Steve West. ChargeNet is in line with its commitment
“This investment is excellent news for to become a key player in the energy
ChargeNet and New Zealand because it transition, says Mercuria energy transition
allows us to rapidly scale up our existing and emissions trading vice president Jean-
network and fast-track the expansion of Francois Steels.
our hyper-rapid charging stations. “We strongly believe ChargeNet is uniquely
“Importantly, the investment by Geneva positioned to support EV adoption across
based Mercuria, a US$100b revenue New-Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region.
company with a global presence in over 54 “We see a tremendous opportunity
countries, underpins our ambition to deliver to combine the strength of both our
world-leading EV charging infrastructure companies and for Mercuria to further STEVE WEST
and innovative software technology to support ChargeNet’s growth plans by
support a substantial increase in electric contributing our experience and expertise
vehicle use around the country.” “Which reflects well on the company Steve
in electricity and carbon markets. has built, along with the opportunity in front
West says New Zealand is on the edge of “And by giving ChargeNet access to of it,” Dellabarca says.
exponential growth in EV adoption. Mercuria’s global network, notably in Asia He also thanked VMG Advisory which led the
He believes ChargeNet’s next-generation and the Middle East.” process and legal counsel Johnson Prichard
300kW hyper-rapid charging stations are Steels says electrification of the transport Fee for their support.
a game-changer for motorists, especially sector is a key pillar of Mercuria’s energy
alongside key Government initiatives. In addition to the funding, Mercuria will
transition strategy. appoint New Zealand-based Julian McCree
Hyper-rapid charging can provide 400km “An investment in ChargeNet is aligned with as its board representative to help build
range in 15 minutes and charge up to six Mercuria’s strategy to shift more than 50% the business and drive local and global
vehicles at a site at once. of our investments towards energy transition expansion plans.
“They go a long way to reducing the current over the next five years.” “Signing this deal is not only a major
barriers of EV ownership, including range ChargeNet chairman Richard Dellabarca milestone for ChargeNet,” Dellabarca
anxiety and perceived lack of public fast says that for a New Zealand growth adds.“It’s a significant step forward for New
charging infrastructure,” West explains. company, the funding process generated Zealand’s necessary transition away from
Though not disclosing the deal’s worth, an extremely high level of interest from fossil fuels to sustainable transportation.”
West says Mercuria is one of the largest investors domestically and internationally.
6 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ
THE MINI COOPER SE ELECTRIC HATCH NEAR MURIWAI BEACH.
MINI E HAS
MAXI G
T
he new Mini Cooper SE Electric Hatch
might be small in stature but it packs
giant-sized grunt.
Available in the Classic format ($60,400
recommended retail price) or Mini Yours
upgraded version ($67,930 RRP) – both
well within the $80,000 Clean Car Discount
rebate threshold, the three-door EV can get
from standstill to 100km/h in around seven
seconds with the take-off g-forces thrusting
you back in the plush seats.
The Mini E is well geared for urban use,
suited for a couple of adults to ride in
comfort with perhaps two children in the
back and can easily slot into a small parking
space.
It has more than 160km range so can get
from Auckland City to Muriwai Beach and
back without any worries about running
out of power – and you can get a top up to
80% at the fast charger beside New World
Kumeu on State Highway 16 if you need it
(we didn’t).
THE LUXURIOUS MINI ELECTRIC’S INTERIOR.
It comes with two cables under a lid in the
rear – one with a three-pin plug for charging
is impressive, adding several kilometres of feel every bump – not so as it rides well,
up at home (the most common practice).
range on a downhill run. and it’s so quiet we could hear a boy racer
You can leave it or programme the charging burbling in front and the sound of the
Though the Mini EV is low slung with a low
so it’s ready for when you leave home 17-inch tyres (front-wheel drive) splashing
centre of gravity that is great for cornering
and can use generally cheaper overnight through puddles on a rain-soaked Auckland
and on-road stability, it isn’t hard to get in
electricity rates. weekend.
and out of and has plenty of head and leg
The power regeneration from downhill room at the front. All-round vision is good too, with plenty
coasting and braking (you can choose two of warning given from the ample driver
That low to the road I figured we might
modes, one of which enables more recovery) assistance and safety devices should we
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...Continued from page 4
CHARGING UP AT HOME.
stray near anything.
Luggage and storage space has never been
a Mini forte, and the electric version isn’t
that different – although the grocery shop
or various items can be stowed easily in the
back.
A bank of switches and the circular dials
pay homage to Minis of old, but this has
all the bells and whistles with more
connectivity than you could hope for,
including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and
voice control.
The 5.5-inch screen in front of the driver
displays information like speed, driving
modes, charge level, range, and more at a THE REAR-VIEW CAMERA PROVIDES ASSISTANCE WHEN
glance. DIALS AND SWITCHES RESEMBLE A TRADITIONAL MINI SET UP. REVERSING.
The top-of-the-range Mini Cooper SE
Electric we drove had a panoramic sunroof attention.
which enhances the feeling of space, sun All-in-all a fun drive, the Mini Cooper SE
protection glazing, a convenient head-up Electric Hatch is well suited to urban and
display (HUD), a sports steering wheel – even motorway use but equally at home on tight
puddle lights which shine a “Mini” symbol on country roads – even gravel.
the ground at night.
And it took just a minute or two for
The yellow side mirrors stood out against Dan Smith at Auckland Mini Garage in
our Mini E’s black paintwork, and the rear Newmarket to explain to us how to switch
lights with a Union Jack graphic got many the car on and off, drive it, and answer our
toots of approval. questions.
The car also gets plenty of close looks – So we didn’t really need to read the
several passengers craning to get a glimpse voluminous operator’s handbook, although
as it’s one of those EVs which really draws it’s in the glovebox just in case.
THE UNION JACK REAR LIGHTS STAND OUT.
8 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 9
OUR PICKS FROM IAA
M
otor shows with people appear to be back, and the first major Managing editor Richard Edwards sat down to make his top picks – in
European event is IAA Mobility, currently underway (at the time no particular order – of the show.
of writing) in Munich, Germany.
BMW
BMW has a whole range of electric tastiness
set to land in New Zealand in the form of the i4
and iX3, and took a slightly different tack at IAA.
Their I Vision Circular concept showed a small
hatchback, think Mini-size, made entirely of
recyclable materials. It’s an area of business
the brand has been working on for some time,
for example parts of the i3 were made with
recycled bottles, and the brand is already at
30% recycled or used materials across its
vehicles.
A facelift for the iX3 was also shown – slightly
unfair as it has yet to even make it to NZ yet!
MERCEDES-BENZ EQE
Mercedes had a lot on show at IAA, including
the EQS, EQB and one other vehicle we will
mention next. The one likely to have the biggest
impact in 2022 will be the EQE, providing
an electric alternative to its hugely-popular
E-Class.
The EQE will be made in Bremen for the world
market and in Beijing for the Chinese market,
coming in two variants including the EQE 350
with a 90kWh battery, 530Nm torque, and up
to 660km range (WLTP), while performance
versions around 500kW are planned.
RENAULT MEGANE E-TECH
Renault’s new Megane E-Tech is exciting as
it is very close to production – set to launch
in Europe early next year – and for the reason
that Renault appears to be hyper-focusing
on what it is buyers seem to want these days.
They’ve taken a brand long associated as a
hatch, turned it into a hatch-cum-suv, and
made it electric.
The Megane will be offered with 100kW and
160kW electric motor options, and range
options of 300km or 470km. The battery
is reportedly 20% smaller than that in the
Renault Zoe due to new battery technology.
The ‘CMF-EV’ platform under it is shared with
the Nissan Ariya.
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MERCEDES-BENZ EQG
If Mercedes-Benz wants to get my attention
it has always been simple… break glass and
release a new G-Wagen concept. And this one
is a stunner. They have taken the legendary
offroader, added an all-electric powertrain
and thrown a vat of LED lights at it. This thing
looks cool, like a Mad Max-Tron crossover.
What powers it and when will it be built?
Mercedes-Benz is not ready to say, but expect
the EQS battery and drivetrain to be a starter.
They are calling this a ‘near-production
concept’, so start saving now.
AUDI GRANDSPHERE CONCEPT
The Audi Grandsphere Concept remains light
on details as to what will power it, or if it will
even translate into a new model – but dang this
thing is beautiful.
Part of a set of three concept designs,
which include an SUV and sportscar, the
Grandsphere hints at a new design direction
for the brand, and what its cars could look like
when they are entirely unbound from the need
to design for ICE drivetrains.
VW ID.LIFE CROSSOVER
Small SUVs are currently selling like hotcakes,
so don’t expect this concept to remain in that
state for long. Likely to be called the ID.2 in
production, the ID.Life Crossover features
a 174kW electric motor, 57kWh battery and
400km range.
HYUNDAI ROBOTAXI
Ok, so this is a Hyundai Ioniq 5, but it is also a
sign that self-driving isn’t falling behind in the
rush to go electric, and part of an impressive
array of electric and hydrogen-based
announcements from IAA.
The self-driving Ioniq 5 is expected to see
service with US-based ride-sharing service
Lyft from 2023.
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 11SOUNDS AIR GOES ELECTRIC SUBSCRIBE TO
THE EVS AND BEYOND
NZ PODCAST &
YOUTUBE TO
HEAR THE FULL
INTERVIEW
B
lenheim-based Sounds Air could be Wardman then saw a photo of the electric “almost a no-brainer”.
the first airline in Australasia providing MagniX Cessna Caravan undergoing trial He says the electric motor is a lot simpler
electric aircraft services. flights in the US which prompted further and its overhaul is every 20,000 hours,
It aims to have three 19-seat e-aircraft by discussion at Sounds Air. whereas for a gas turbine it's every 7000
2026 and switch to an all-electric fleet by “And from there, we then quickly understood hours.
about 2030. that the earlier adopters of this evolution in “The cost of a new gas turbine equivalent is
Started 34 years ago by former Air New aviation were going to be the small regional about $1m, whereas for the electric motor
Zealand pilot Cliff Marchant and wife Dianne operators such as ourselves.” it’s $50,000,” Wardman explains.
to provide a low-cost inter-island transport Wardman says Sounds Air is well placed “Likewise, the overhaul costs: a gas turbine
service and easy access to the Marlborough for electric aircraft as it tends to have is about $1m and it's about $10,000 for the
Sounds, Sounds Air now covers from short-haul flights suited for them, a good electric motor.
Taupo to Wanaka and takes about 120,000 renewable electricity network, a customer
“It's such a compelling argument in terms of
passengers annually (COVID-19 restrictions base that wants to fly responsibly and
economics for the utilisation or embracing of
permitting). sustainably, and a government which has
electric motors.”
Chairman Rhyan Wardman says Sounds Air targets to mitigate climate change.
As for the charging infrastructure associated
intends to buy ES-19 electric aircraft from “So there were a lot of boxes ticked and that
with bringing in electric aircraft, Wardman
Heart Aerospace. started the journey.”
says talks are ongoing with the aim of having
The planes have about 400km range and Sounds Air has four Cessna Caravans which it sorted before the first electric aircraft
can charge within 45 minutes during can carry up to 14 people, and six Pilatus arrive.
turnarounds, and that’s expected to improve PC-12 nine seaters.
He says Sounds Air understands a 1MW
as battery technology develops. Switching to electric means passengers charger is needed for the entire ES-19 which
Sounds Air has been on its electric journey enjoy quieter, eco-friendly travel and can has four engine nacelles.
since it began looking at where it wanted to visit places where emissions are likely to be
“The configuration at the airport has still
be in five or 10 years. restricted, possibly helping save the at-risk
to be determined or clarified, but the
“I think it was a picture of Eviation’s Alice Milford Sound Airport, for instance.
encouraging thing for us is that the airports
(electric aircraft) that I saw that triggered Electric aircraft are also expected to see are enthusiastic and engaging, and as with
the thought that ‘okay, things are developing less maintenance than their gas turbine energy companies.”
here’, the industry is moving on, or the equivalents and therefore reduced operating
Wardman says talks have included
aircraft propulsion systems are evolving,” costs.
Wellington Airport, Mercury, Blenheim
says Wardman. Wardman says that though electric aircraft Airport and Nelson Airport.
He was impressed not only by Alice’s acquisition costs are fairly similar to
“They've all been very enthusiastic, and
futuristic look but its battery electric conventional ones, the maintenance and
there's definitely a desire to enable this early
propulsion. operating costs of e-aircraft make them
Continued on page 14...
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adoption of this technology. In what form or
shape it takes is yet to be seen.
“So between now, and when the aircraft
arrives we've got a lot of work to do, and we
need to have those infrastructural solutions
in place before we can start any operations.”
Wardman says Sounds Air has also been
following progress on East by West’s first
electric ferry in Wellington and has been
talking with the company and learning from
it.
He says the first e-aircraft will have about
300W/h per kg so it will cover all nine
sectors Sounds Air operates in.
Meanwhile, Wardman believes battery
electric 150-seat aircraft are doubtful in the and the certification process only start then. “Battery electric stays the same weight and
short term. “So we would like government's involvement understanding the energy source is different
through the CAA, and the Ministry of between fuel and battery.
But he expects other low or zero emission
fuels like hydrogen, bio-fuels and other Transport for a proactive engagement.” “So, a good appreciation and understanding
sustainable fuels could help with the bigger In the meantime, Heart Aerospace has of that energy source is a consideration.”
aircraft for overseas travel and freight. reported it raised US$35 million in a Series A As for noise, Wardman points to
“The exciting thing is we’re all heading on a round led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Canterbury-based ElectricAir’s electric
decarbonised path. United Airlines Ventures and Mesa Air Group Pipistrel two-seat trainer as a good
Inc. example of the quietness of e-aircraft and
“There’s a lot of enthusiasm to decarbonise
As part of the agreement, United and Mesa the changes coming.
transport.”
have placed purchase orders for 200 ES-19s, Wardman says the lack of noise with
Wardman says funding for the incorporation
with options for an additional 100. electrics is a consideration for those like the
of the type of technology Sounds Air is
Wardman says that’s great too. Wanaka community in embracing Sounds
considering isn’t considered a challenge,
Air’s service and that having quieter aircraft
and enough support exists to help overcome “As a small regional operator sitting here
will be a factor in airports staying close to
funding issues. in New Zealand, we’re really excited and
city centres.
Asked about the project costs, Wardman says chuffed with the team at Heart Aerospace,
but also very much encouraged that with “Noise for the surrounding community is an
that’s commercially sensitive information
United Airlines behind them, this aircraft is important consideration,” he says.
which he won’t divulge.
going to get made right. “And, indeed, with the electric aircraft it will
He says Sounds Air isn’t seeking
“Finnair, the national airline of Finland, be something that you can comply with and
government support, but that Energy
have also made a commitment to Heart will enable that co-existence.”
Efficiency and Conservation Authority
(EECA) co-funding helped with a feasibility Aerospace, we understand. So, again, Sounds Air has grown considerably over
study Sounds Air did. exciting, and just ensures that this is going its 34 years, made more than 175,000 Cook
to happen.” Strait crossings to its own Picton airport
“There are more studies that need to happen
Wardman says considerable interest exists and to Blenheim, Nelson, Westport and
of small regional airport conversions
in switching aircraft to electric and other Paraparaumu.
from what they currently do to electric, or
hydrogen, or a combination,” Wardman alternatives to fossil fuels. It has 82 staff with another 20 or so in its
believes. ZeroAvia is a United Kingdom based outlet Sounds Air maintenance division, Wardman
Sounds Air started talking to very early says.
“In terms of up-scaling and training there's
an opportunity there through Robertson on – at the same time as Heart Aerospace “Most recently we have begun flying
Research Institute, and Massey School of – and it has some exciting developments Blenheim to Christchurch, Wellington to
Aviation. around hydrogen fuel cells and is looking at Westport and Wellington to Taupo,” he says.
conversion kits, he explains. Wardman invested in Sounds Air in 2009
“And again, that could be a study, or an
assessment that could be supported by Airbus is also working with new technology, and became a director in 2013 before being
government to fully understand and unlock and Hiringa Energy in New Zealand and appointed board chairman in November
that potential.” Universal Hydrogen are also involved. 2019.
Wardman believe another vital area of Wardman believes some retraining of pilots He was a Wine Marlborough director from
government support will be ensuring the and crew will be needed for the transition to 2014 and finished as its board chairman in
Civil Aviation Authority is resourced enough e-aircraft. 2017, his career including start-ups and
to be proactive in the evolution of aviation’s Take-off and landing characteristics will be spanning various industries and roles.
regulatory environment, and the certification different, for instance. “We're very excited about what comes next.”
of these new type of aircraft. “A conventional aircraft gets lighter as it
“It would be unfortunate if the infrastructure travels from point A to point B, as it utilises
was put into place, the aircraft brought in, the fuel.
14 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZELECTRICAL VEHICLES ARE HERE —
BUT ARE THEY READY FOR DRIVERS?
A
to as Engine Control Units (ECUs) than
utomotive manufacturers are traditional vehicular architectures.
converging increasingly behind the
same bold view: the future is here, and CHARGING COMPATIBILITY ISSUES
it’s electric. Whether manufacturers miraculously resolve
Ford plans to pump US$30 billion into the semiconductor shortage far ahead
electric vehicles (EVs) by 2025 to bolster its of expectations or carmakers transition
vision of a 40% electric fleet by the end of successfully to solutions that require fewer
the decade. chips, there are still other issues bedevilling
the nascent EV market.
By 2035, US rival General Motors (GM) plans
For instance, though drivers of petrol cars
to go all-electric – a milestone Mercedes-
can stop at any gas station anywhere and BY MOSHE SHLISEL
Benz aims to reach by 2030.
fuel up easily, not all charging ports are GUARDKNOX FOUNDER AND
These private commitments come amid a created equal. CHIEF EXECUTIVE
concerted public-sector push to combat
climate change and reduce carbon dioxide So, even if a driver can reach one of the
emissions. US’s 41,000 EV charging stations, there’s
no guarantee that it’ll be compatible with About GuardKnox
The Biden administration is calling on their car’s charging port – a problem
carmakers to ensure that at least half of all that underscores the need for universal GuardKnox is a leading automotive
new vehicles sold are emission-free by 2030. charging solutions. technology company building high-
Electrification will be the linchpin of realising performance, service-oriented,
Without universal charging, vehicles could customisable, and secure-by-design
that ambition, but with EVs currently be plagued by dysfunctional networks, with
comprising only about 2% of all vehicle sales products for the next generation of driver-
a jumble of different costly hardware and centric mobility.
in the US there’s a long way to go. software solutions.
Battery issues triggered by the global chip And without a massive increase in the It empowers the automotive industry with
shortage, charging compatibility, and range number of charging stations – most of which the scalable and flexible technologies
anxiety are among the biggest hurdles are currently concentrated in a single state, necessary for consumers to have the
threatening carmakers’ plans to mass California – today’s EV promises will be freedom to evolve and customise their
deploy EVs. impossible to keep. vehicle’s performance, as well as their in-
To address these challenges, manufacturers vehicle experience.
Furthermore, the deployment of charging
will need to rethink their core vehicular stations will require uniform updates to the GuardKnox’s pioneering approach to
architecture. electrical grid itself. automotive innovation comes from the
If they implement the necessary changes These grids are the backbone for powering executive team’s vast experience in
now, their EV goals may be feasible. EVs and the ecosystem (the vehicles, aviation, thus bringing their philosophy to
SUPPLY CHAIN WOES life that every vehicle should meet fighter
interconnected networks of payment,
jet standards.
There’s no emission-free future for the meterage and reservation systems) that will
automotive industry without semiconductor interact with it. Founded in 2016, GuardKnox is based
chips to power new car models, some of Grids must be equipped with hardware in Israel, with subsidiary locations in
which require upwards of 100 chips to and software that accommodates new Stuttgart, Germany, and Detroit, Michigan.
function. charging capabilities without compromising
But the global chip shortage is triggering performance and simultaneously preventing the scale and most EVs have ranges between
massive manufacturing delays, executive cyber breaches. 145km and 320km.
headaches, and inflation across a broad The Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework, To ease range anxiety, it’s crucial
swathe of industries – and carmakers currently working its way through the US for carmakers to embrace vehicular
haven’t been spared. congress, provides US$7.5 billion in much- architectures that are simpler, less
The cost to the industry is staggering. needed funding to build the country’s EV demanding, and more power-efficient.
Forecasters predict that the total number infrastructure, including charging stations.
SECURING THE FUTURE
of vehicles manufactured this year will fall As more stations come online and
four million below expectations, causing For EV advocates these are heady days.
carmakers ramp up EV production, they
US$110 billion in lost sales. Between carmakers’ eye-popping
must produce interchangeable and unified
announcements and policymakers’ plans to
With the ripple effects of the shortage likely ports or onboard chargers.
support a robust EV infrastructure, there’s
to be felt for years, there’s reason to worry RANGE ANXIETY ample reason for optimism that the streets
about the impact on EVs whose batteries Getting more EV charging stations up and will soon see far more clean, green cars.
depend on semiconductor chips. running is essential to addressing one of the But only through a clear-eyed assessment
If carmakers are to achieve their EV most widespread (and understandable) fears of the formidable obstacles can carmakers
benchmarks, they can’t count on the chip holding many drivers back from buying EVs. make EVs the norm, and not just a niche
shortage resolving itself anytime soon. They worry that they’ll find themselves product.
Instead, they’ll need to consider EV stranded for want of power, particularly on Improving vehicular architecture is an
architectures that are less reliant on a longer drives: that fear known as range excellent place to start – and with such
surplus of chips. anxiety. proactive measures on manufacturers’ part
This hardware challenge can be met by Numerous car companies are developing the EV movement will be fully charged for
switching to a Zonal E/E architecture, which and releasing vehicles that promise a range years to come.
requires fewer components and fewer of up to 800km between charges. Visit www.guardknox.com for more
automotive computers (commonly referred But these models are at the pricier end of information.
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 15ENERGY EFFICIENCY FIRM
REBRANDS TO ESP
E
SP has announced a major rebrand
to better represent the full range
of efficiency, sustainability and
performance services it provides to clients.
The rebrand reflects ESP's mission to help
Kiwi businesses, and property owners
reduce carbon emissions and utility costs,
and includes a new name, a new logo and a
new website.
The shortened name, ESP, will remain but
is being repositioned around Efficiency,
Sustainability and Performance.
A leader in utility management services,
ESP says the new brand aligns better with
and showcases the company's full suite of
technology and professional services.
LINCOLN WATSON
"Over the last few years, we've seen a lot
of changes,” ESP chief executive Lincoln
Watson says.
“Our energy and water efficiency services
have grown stronger than ever, and
we've expanded further into the broader
sustainability space through our carbon and
utility management Software as a Service
and consulting team.
“Many know us already as ESP, but as we
work with more businesses, we wanted to be
clear about what we do by repositioning the
brand around efficiency, sustainability and
performance."
In addition to its new graphic identity
and fresh new website, ESP's rebrand
incorporates the heightened range of
capability and features provided by its
intelligent analytics platform, ESP Hub.
Exciting developments have been made “Clive analyses the 1.5 million data points
possible by the significant investment made we gather every day from sensors in About ESP
in ESP last year by New Zealand Green buildings – far more than any human could ESP is an award-winning, New Zealand
Investment Finance. – to identify waste and inefficiency in utility owned and operated expert in energy
consumption,” Watson explains. efficiency and decarbonisation.
The funding is helping ESP accelerate
services development, continue to grow, “These innovations are allowing our clients It has helped organisations improve utility
and lead decarbonisation and energy to save time and focus on delivering efficiency, environmental sustainability,
management in New Zealand. the sustainability actions that make a waste reduction and improved asset
difference.” utilisation for more than 20 years.
"ESP has long been an advocate for the
use of technology in the carbon and energy ESP has worked with more than 150 New ESP has a proven track record of
management industry,” Watson says. Zealand organisations to help them achieve delivering results, including saving more
auditable energy and carbon emission than $60 million and avoiding over 49,000
“We’re investing heavily to deliver market- tonnes of carbon emissions.
leading value, great customer experiences reductions.
and innovation using the cloud, machine The rebrand reinstates ESP’s breadth of
how ESP can help your organisation
learning and the Internet of Things (IoT). experience and technology across utility use
understand utility costs, reduce carbon
“We recently released New Zealand’s first and costs, decarbonisation, energy efficiency
emissions and adopt positive sustainability
energy management machine learning bot and NABERSNZ ratings.
action, head to the new ESP website at
called Clive. If you're interested in learning more about esphq.com for information.
16 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZFIND YOUR NEW EVS HERE!
AVAILABLE NOW
AUDI e-TRON BEV BMW i3 BEV HYUNDAI IONIQ BEV
RANGE PRICE
was
$78,700 was
$65,990
50kWh 336km $135,500 RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
55kWh 417km $150,500 335km $70,075 311km $57,365
HYUNDAI KONA BEV JAGUAR i-PACE S BEV KIA NIRO BEV
RANGE PRICE
was
$77,990
64kWh 448km $79,990 $71,365 RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
39kWh 305km $69,990 $61,365 470km $144,365 455km $69,365
NISSAN LEAF BEV MG ZS EV BEV RENAULT ZOE BEV
was
$61,990 was
$48,990 was
$62,990
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
270km $53,365 250km $40,365 395km $54,365
TESLA S BEV TESLA X BEV TESLA 3 BEV
was
$69,990
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
520km $129,700 375km $139,200 460km $61,365
*Range is WLTP combined where available.
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 17FIND YOUR NEW EVS HERE!
BEV
EV FRANCHISE DEALER LIST
VOLKSWAGEN E-GOLF BEV HYUNDAI IONIQ 5 BEV
NAME
AUDI / HYUNDAI / VOLKSWAGEN
Farmer Auto Village
07 578 6017 | info@farmerautovillage.co.nz | 116 Mt Maunganui
Hewletts Road, Mt Maunganui
was
$69,490 was
$79,990 HYUNDAI
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE Energy Motors
232km $60,865 348km $71,365 06 759 8070 | hyundai@energymotors.co.nz | Cnr
Gill & Eliot Streets, New Plymouth
New Plymouth
LIGHT COMMERCIAL
LIGHT
LDV EV80 LIGHT
COMMERCIAL FUSO e-CANTER COMMERCIAL RENAULT KANGOO LIGHT
COMMERCIAL
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
180km $80,489 150km POA 200km $74,990
LANDING NOW
MAZDA MX-30 MERCEDES-BENZ EQA AUDI E-TRON GT
was
$74,990
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
200km $66,365 480km $85,990 487km $194,500
*with Clean Car discount applied
CHARGE AHEAD WITH A
GREAT EV FINANCE OPTION
udc.co.nz | 0800 500 832
18 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZFIND YOUR NEW EVS HERE!
PHEV
BMW 225xe PHEV MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PHEV TOYOTA PRIUS PRIME PHEV
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
52km $73,200 50km $55,990 50km $48,490
MINI COUNTRYMAN PHEV HYUNDAI IONIQ PHEV MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS PHEV
was
$49,990
RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE RANGE PRICE
30km $59,900 52km $53,990 55km $44,240
EV FRANCHISE DEALER LIST
NAME
AUDI / HYUNDAI / VOLKSWAGEN
Farmer Auto Village
07 578 6017
Mt Maunganui
info@farmerautovillage.co.nz
116 Hewletts Road, Mt Maunganui
HYUNDAI
Energy Motors
06 759 8070 | hyundai@energymotors.co.nz New Plymouth
Cnr Gill & Eliot Streets, New Plymouth
116
116 Hewletts
HewlettsRoad
Road
Mount
Mount Maunganui,Tauranga
Maunganui, TaurangaCity
City
Tel: 07 578 6017
Tel: 07 578 6017
www.farmerautovillage.co.nz
www.farmerautovillage.co.nz
AUTOVILLAGE ®
Follow us on Facebook
ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND PLUG-IN HYBRIDS AT THE ELECTRIC AUTOVILLAGE
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 19FIND YOUR QUALITY USED EVS HERE!
USED EV CAR TYPES USED DEALERS LIST
MAKE MODEL TYPE PRICING RRP EST. APPROX RANGE KMS NAME CITY
BMW i3 - 22 kWh BEV $33k - $45k 120 km
i3 - 33 kWh BEV $52k - $86k 200 km
Autolink Cars | 09 378 9090 | autolinkcarsltd@gmail.com
Hyundai Ioniq BEV $47k - $55k 220 km Auckland
BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen e-Golf
Ioniq Elite BEV $57k - $66k 220 km
Kona BEV $69k - 83k 400 km
Kia Soul EV BEV $30k 150 km
Mercedes Benz B250 e BEV $44k - $47k 140 km GVI Electric | 09 216 7106 | ev@gvi.kiwi
Auckland
Mitsubishi i-Miev BEV $8k - $13k 100 km Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen ID 3, Kia Soul, Vauxhall Corsa, Peugeot e-2008 Allure
B-Miev Van BEV $16k 100 km
Nissan LEAF Generation 1 BEV $9k - $16k 120 km
LEAF Gen 2 - 24 kWh BEV $13k - $34k 135 km
LEAF Gen 2 - 30 kWh BEV $26k - $36k 180 km Auckland City Electric Vehicles | 0800 248 9387 | www.acev.co.nz
Auckland
LEAF ZE1 - 40 kWh BEV $43k - $63k 250 km BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen e-Golf, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
e-NV200 - 24 kWh BEV $27k 140 km
e-NV200 - 40 kWh BEV $60k 200 km
Renault Zoe 40 kWh BEV $29k - $60k 300 km
Kangoo ZE Van BEV $42k - $46k 160 km Volt Vehicles | 0800 PH VOLY | 022 480 0722 | david@voltvehicles.co.nz
Auckland
Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Smart Fortwo BEV $20k 100 km
Tesla S P85D BEV $95k - $120k 330 km
S 90D BEV $125k 420 km
X 75D BEV $109k 340 km
Hamilton EV | 021 959 400 | nicholas@hamiltonev.co.nz Hamilton
X 90D BEV $129k 410 km Nissan Leaf, Nissan eNV200
X 100D BEV $149k 480 km
X P100D BEV $230k 460 km
Volkswagon e-Golf - 36kWh BEV $49k - $69k 220 km
Audi A3 Sportback E-Tron PHEV $41k - $50k 45 km + 600 km Drive EV | 027 521 0429 | 07 378 0082 | steve@driveev.co.nz
Q7 e-tron PHEV $125k 54 km + 800 km MG MG-5 Excite, Nissan Leaf, Vauxhall Mokka-e Elite, Vauxhall Corsa-e, Volkswagen Taupo
ID 3, Kia Soul, Honda E
BMW i3 REX - 22 kWh PHEV $33k - $50k 120 km + 120 km
i3 REX - 33 kWh PHEV $50k - $68k 200 km + 120 km
225xe PHEV $42k 41 km + 550 km
330e PHEV $50k - $76k 37 km + 550 km Coventry Cars Hybrid & Electric 04 384 4536 | salesteam@coventrycars.co.nz
Wellington
530e PHEV $140k 50 km + 600 km Nissan Leaf, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Nissan eNV200
X5 xDrive40e PHEV $140k 30 km + 800 km
i8 PHEV $94k - $140k 37 km + 400 km
Hyundai Ioniq PHEV $46 63 km + 1040 km
Mercedes Benz C350 e Sedan PHEV $63k - $75k 31 km + 700 km Harwood Cars | 027 492 2218 | www.harwoodcars.com
Auckland
GLE500 PHEV $130k 30 km + 700 km
E350 e PHEV $120k 30 km + 600 km
S500 e PHEV $96k 30 km + 700 km
Mini Countryman Cooper SE PHEV $68k 30km + 500 km
EV City | 03 972 5505 | contact@evcity.kiwi
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV $22k - $58k 50 km + 500 km Christchurch
BMW i3, Nissan Leaf, Nissan eNV200, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Porsche Cayenne S e-hybrid PHEV $129k 20 km + 750 km
Toyota Plug-in Prius PHEV $11k - $20k 26 km + 800 km
Volvo XC60 T8 PHEV $115k 40 km + 600 km
XC90 T8 PHEV $115k 44 km + 600 km
Metro Christchurch | 03 348 5855 | chrisn@metrochch.co.nz
Kia Soul First Edition 64kWh BEV $75,990 450km Christchurch
Nissan Leaf
Honda E Advance BEV $69,990 220km
Peugeot e-2008 GT 50kWh BEV $75,880 320km
e-2008 Allure 50kWh BEV $70,880 320km
Vauxhall Corsa Elite 50kWh BEV $70,880 320km The Electric Motor Vehicle Company | 03 218 7130 | 027 515 8799 | info@electricmv.co.nz
Invercargill
Volkswagen iD3 1st Edition 62kWh BEV $79,990 330km Nissan Leaf, Nissan eNV200, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
BEV - Battery Electric Vehicle PHEV - Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
20 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZDRIVE THE FUTURE
GOOGLE REVIEWS 0800 248 9387
5
Visit us at
83 Barry’s Point Road,
37 REVIEWS Takapuna, Auckland
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 21FIND YOUR QUALITY USED EVS HERE!
AVAILABLE NOW
BYD E6
Looking for a tough EV with great range and interior space?
Perhaps you are looking for something to use as a taxi?
The BYD E6 could be for you.
Hitting yards now as an ex-Singapore import, these Chinese-built cars are often high mileage but handle it will. They are
roomy, and have battery sizes starting at a huge 60kWh.
They offer huge value, with the main downside being that they have only high-level AC charging, no DC charging.
2020 PEUGEOT E-2008 GT 2020 HONDA E ADVANCE 2020 KIA SOUL
2020 VAUXHALL CORSA ELITE 2020 VOLKSWAGEN ID3 2012 NISSAN LEAF
OPEL MOKKA NISSAN ENV200 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
VOLKSWAGEN ID4 BYD E6 MITSUBISHI IMIEV
22 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZEVOLOCITY AND EVS & BEYOND TO TAKE
EV PROGRAMME TO NEXT LEVEL
STUDENTS LINE UP FOR AN EVOLOCITY EVENT.
M
uch like EVs & Beyond, EVolocity was
born from a desire to encourage more
Kiwis to understand and embrace
electric vehicles.
Launched in 2013, the organisation had two
focus areas.
First, a high school engineering programme
in which students design, build and test their
electric vehicle against their peers’ on race
day.
Second, an expo bringing together both the
high school finals event and the wider EV AN ENGINEER OF THE FUTURE GETS TO GRIPS WITH AN
community through a range of EV-related ROB MCEWEN EVOLOCITY ENTRY. PHOTO BY MARK ROBOTHAM
exhibitors and test rides aimed at the
general public. EVolocity is a practical way for secondary force to be reckoned with in the EV education
school students to engage with engineering, space.
The expo was a fun and exciting way to end
sustainability and the inevitable onset of
the year and celebrate the achievements of As the programme’s new media partner,
electric transport.
EVolocity students. EVs & Beyond will help to take this valuable
Participants gain knowledge, skills and programme to the next level.
In 2014, EVolocity impressed a crowd by
passion in the areas of design, engineering
having a Tesla S perform against a Ferrari, a “EVolocity is more than a STEM (science,
and electronics, preparing them for 21st
Porsche and an Audi A8. technology, engineering, and mathematics)
century careers.
programme,” EVolocity chief executive Sarah
However, by 2018 it had become clear that
Helped by experienced engineering tutors, Fitzgerald says.
the youth education aspect was where
each team is supplied with a 350-watt
EVolocity could make the biggest difference. “We’re developing future generations
electric motor kit and batteries and
of engineers, technicians, technology
EVolocity has evolved into the most innovative mentored throughout the design and build
innovators and entrepreneurs.
high school programme of its kind in New processes to create its own electric vehicle.
Zealand. From just 16 teams, 11 schools and “New Zealand needs a highly skilled
Teams can also choose to use a larger motor
one region in 2014, it has grown to 173 teams workforce to deliver sustainable
under 1kW in EVolocity’s open class, or up to
and 101 schools across seven regions. infrastructure and clean transportation,”
3kW in its new competition class.
she explains.
Founder Rob McEwen has always believed in
Entries are judged in categories based
the power of the youth. “EVolocity provides practical hands-on
on performance, innovation, show, and
engineering learning as well as career
“Young people intuitively believe that reporting.
pathways for young New Zealanders.
electric vehicles are the future,” he says.
With a strong team of professionals to
“Together with our partners like EVs &
“So, it’s hugely rewarding to see how readily support students and teachers and develop
Beyond we’re investing in our young people
they embrace the EVolocity programme.” the programme, EVolocity has become a
and in our country's future."
WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZ | EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 23THE ELECTRIC BIKE TEAM.
E-BIKE DEMAND (AND THEFTS) RISING
Cameron says the
MICHAEL TRITT e-bike thefts are
even more reason
D
to get its Locky
emand for electric bikes remains
Dock secure
strong, especially with COVID-19 alert
CLEVE CAMERON bike storage and
levels changing.
e-bike charging in
And e-bike thieves have been making the place.
most of it too.
“We can’t get them in quick enough,” he
Reports suggest e-bike insurance claims says.
have almost doubled to reach $225,000 this
Installation in Auckland has been
year and that thieves are targeting higher
delayed by the region’s COVID-19 level 4
priced e-bikes.
restrictions, but Cameron is confident 15
Electrify NZ founder Michael Tritt says an sites considered in Auckland could see
Auckland store was hit during the first week installation start under level 3 or 2.
of August’s level 4 lockdown, its window
Meanwhile, Locky Dock sites can proceed in
smashed and a top e-bike stolen.
the surge in thefts. Wellington under the lower alert levels there,
Though Tritt’s confident the thief will be such as outside Wellington Hospital and in
Auckland Transport even has a web page
caught he’s not so sure the e-bike will be Newtown.
dedicated to anti-theft advice, including
returned.
using sturdy D and U-locks, adding that an Cameron says Locky Docks will be installed
Tritt says security has been stepped up even e-bike is three times more likely to be stolen outside Les Mills gyms throughout the
further. than a standard cycle. country.
Meanwhile, demand for e-bikes continues Bike Auckland once offered up to five BSB’s latest The Bikers’ Bulletin reports
apace, Tritt saying while Electrify NZ’s three D-locks as Christmas gifts, also suggesting that insurance companies concerned by the
Auckland stores are restricted during level 4, sturdy locks are needed. Two-thirds of bike soaring value of thefts are warning e-bikes
its five stores outside of Auckland are picking stolen are taken from central Auckland may require separate policies.
up under the changed alert levels. usually between 11am and 6pm and two They’re usually insured under house and
Like many Aucklanders, Tritt is looking bikes are taken from public areas daily. contents policies.
forward to a drop to level 3 and below. It suggested recording e-bike details and Any new e-bike policies may insist on
He says all the stores will be operating registration numbers, especially on the snap. adequate e-bike security when they’re not
under the correct procedures but that many org.nz website, to aid recovery. being used, it adds.
e-bike shops may not quite qualify for any Strong e-bike demand is also reported by BSB says international research suggests
COVID subsidies. the Electric Bike Team, which also had a a side effect of having secure bike parking
“Losing 40% of trade is quite a big hit and I break-in at its Auckland store with a window is that people are more likely to use a bike
think a lot could have lost about 30%.” smashed and one bike stolen. instead of a car.
Many e-bike riders might also be Security has been increased there too. Its bulletin also has hints for preventing
reconsidering their security in the wake of Big Street Bikers (BSB) co-founder Cleve e-bike thefts.
24 EVS AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 2021 | WWW.EVSANDBEYOND.CO.NZYou can also read
