Electric Cars & Vehicles (EVs) In New Zealand

We believe that home is the best place in the world. That’s why we’re working hard to build more renewable energy as well as help people understand how EVs could reduce transport emissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Understanding Electric Vehicles (EV)

EVs are the environmentally friendlier way to travel. With prices coming down, and petrol prices going up, it’s no surprise more Kiwis are making the change to EVs.

So what are EVs? Are they really cheaper to run than conventional cars? What’s the difference between hybrids and electric vehicles? And are there trade-offs when you go electric?

EVs looking like the way of the future. It’s clear that we need an alternative to fossil fuels. On top of that, New Zealand has a target to be carbon neutral by 2050 ie reducing Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to net zero, and we want to do our part to help reach it.

Running our cars on fossil fuels is a huge part of our carbon footprint. As of May 2022, land transport accounts for about 47% of GHG emissions, 90% of which are from vehicles using our roads.

Electric vehicles look like the one of the answers to our future transport needs. They not only have reduced emissions but don’t have as much dependency on fossil fuels or the petrol station.

With more charging places popping up and technology getting better and better to improve travel times between charges, the time to look into electric vehicles is now!

The Different Types Of Electric Vehicles

The list of car brands investing in electric vehicles is growing with companies like Volvo, General Motors and Honda indicating they plan to phase out internal combustion engines and become 100% electric only. This means better technology, a wider range of models and lower initial vehicle costs.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVS)

Icon image of plug and battery

Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVS)

Icon of electric plug, battery and fuel station

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVS)

Icon image of battery and petrol fuel station

Learn More About Types of EVs

EV Charging

Charging at home

Icon of house with lightning bolt inside intended to represent charging at home

Owners of electric vehicles say they love plugging in their car at the end of the day instead of visiting a petrol station. You can get by with a standard power point, but you’ll get faster charging with a wall-mounted charger.

Charging somewhere else

Charge on the go

EVs and PHEVs usually have a portable charging kit that plugs in to a standard power point. They’re ideal when you’re travelling or need a bit of a top-up at a friend’s house.

Charging at a station

There’s now a strong national network of charging stations which is continuously growing. They all have fast chargers that can give you approximately an extra 100km of range in about 25 minutes. That makes them a perfect excuse for a break on a long trip.

More about EV charging