Electric vehicles (EVs) are quickly becoming the future of motoring in Australia. With petrol prices at an all-time high and environmental concerns growing, more Aussies are making the switch to emission-free driving.
This guide will look at how EVs are shaping up in Perth and what you need to know if you’re considering going electric. Using your vehicle to wrangle the needs of your busy family is hard enough without the added stresses an electric vehicle can bring. Our guide will help to fill you in and have you driving your electric vehicle with confidence and peace-of-mind.
Western Australia Electric Vehicle Laws
There are no special requirements for licensing an electric vehicle in Western Australia compared to a conventional vehicle. In fact, the Western Australian government aims to incentivise the purchase of electric vehicles in the state and transition the region to an EV future.
Western Australian residents can be compensated for the purchase of eligible electric vehicles via the Zero Emission Vehicle Rebate. You can find out more about the rebate here.
There is also the WA Electric Vehicle Strategy to consider. The Strategy includes the following initiatives:
- The creation of Australia’s longest electric vehicle fast-charging network, ranging from Kununurra, Kalgoorlie, Perth and Esperance. This network includes 49 locations around WA and aims to be fully operational by January 2024.
- The goal of achieving a minimum 25% electric vehicles for new light and small passenger, and small and medium SUV government fleet vehicles by 2025/26
- Developing and updating standards, guidelines, and planning approvals and improving awareness and knowledge among stakeholders.
In short, Perth is an excellent place to own an electric vehicle. The environmental goals of the WA government mean that EV drivers are well-supported in their goal to participate in a more sustainable future.
Best Places to Charge Electric Vehicle in Perth
You can use the following resources to easily find places to charge your electric vehicle in Perth:
- Plugshare: Plugshare offers an interactive map of EV charging stations just about anywhere in the world, including Perth and surrounding areas.
- Zap-Map: Rather than a full-blown interactive map, Zap-Map offers a list of electric vehicle charging stations in Perth. This can be more convenient and user-friendly for some drivers, particularly on mobile.
- Electric Vehicle Council: This site features an embedded Plugshare map, accompanied by plenty of useful supporting information on electric vehicle ownership in Australia.
Charging Electric Vehicles at Home
Charging your EV in the comfort of your own garage or driveway is one of the key conveniences. It lets you start every day with a full battery without needing to stop at charging stations.
Most new EVs come with a portable home AC charging cable. This plugs into a regular wall socket to slowly charge overnight. It’s the easiest option but also the slowest.
For faster home charging, a wallbox or EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment) is recommended. These hardwired devices draw more energy to charge your car significantly more quickly.
Installation involves an electrician assessing your power supply and circuit capacity to handle EV currents. They’ll mount the wallbox and connect it to your switchboard via an isolated circuit.
With the right home charging solution, you can wake up to a full battery every day and enjoy the ease of leaving the petrol station behind.
For more information on the costs of charging your electric vehicle both at home and at public stations, check out this comprehensive guide from ROLLiN’ Insurance.
Electric Vehicle Driving Tips
Driving an EV is a little different than a conventional car. Here are some top tips to get the most out of your electric vehicle and save energy.
Use Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking takes the kinetic energy from decelerating and uses it to top up your battery. Simply lifting your foot off the accelerator will start regenerative braking. For stronger deceleration, pull the paddle behind the steering wheel. This engages maximum regen and can bring the car to a complete stop without touching the brakes.
One-Pedal Driving
Many EVs have a one-pedal driving mode. This provides aggressive regenerative braking when you lift off the accelerator. Your brake lights will illuminate and the car slows rapidly but smoothly. For complete stops, press the brake pedal as normal. One pedal driving lets you maximise range and rarely touch the brakes.
Drive Smoother
Sudden acceleration or braking wastes energy. Drive smoothly and read the road ahead to coast when you can. Use cruise control on highways to maintain an efficient steady speed.
Monitor Your Range
Keep an eye on the remaining range and think ahead. If running low, adjust your speed and climate control to preserve battery. Most EVs have trip data showing your energy usage – use this to improve your driving efficiency over time.
Climate Control
Minimise air con wherever possible to reduce load on the battery. Pre-cool the cabin while still plugged in so you start every trip comfortable. Seat heaters use far less energy than blasting the heater – make use of these on cold mornings.
On the whole, driving an electric vehicle in Perth is a great choice. It helps promote a more sustainable future, preserving the beauty of Australia for your children and grandchildren. To learn more about electric vehicles visit Prestige Cars for more information. With plenty of support from the state government, there’s no excuse not to jump on the EV bandwagon.
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