Unlock the full potential of an EV road trip in Australia
In Australia, the electric revolution is underway with sustainability driving a gradual shift toward the adoption of hybrid (HEVs) and electric vehicles (EVs). An acceleration in EV interest has led to a growing demand for the requisite EV infrastructure needed to accommodate expansion. As a result, the federal government recently announced a $500 million "Driving the Nation" fund with an aim to support the Australian automotive sector to sell, service and repair more EVs.
Investment into a greener future means the relationship between everyday Australians and EVs will only improve with time. Although Australia's vast distances, sparse population and remote locations create the need for improved accessibility to EV infrastructure, this does not mean EVs are an unsuitable option as a personal car. Misconceptions around EVs and long distance driving may deter potential consumers, however EVs are more than capable of managing the demands of extended drives.
The ultimate EV road trips in Australia
The fact is, owning an EV does not mean you are not able to enjoy a long road trip. In fact, you can plan ahead with this interactive map by Plugshare which tracks the expanding public and private charging stations around the world, including in Australia. For EV drivers and potential buyers, the below breakdown will provide you with a few terrific road trip destinations that are suitable for EV travel in Australia.
The Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales
New South Wales residents have access to one of Australia's most scenic road trip routes - the Grand Pacific Drive. Make the smooth departure from Sydney and head toward the second-oldest national park in the world: the Royal National Park. The park's winding roads and tall trees offer a one-of-a-kind experience without the noise of a combustible engine, meaning you can simply drive and take in the sounds of the Australian bush.
From here, you will cross the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, which is suspended over the ocean and hugs the nearby cliffs. As you head further south, you will arrive in the laidback coastal locale of Wollongong. In addition to beautiful beachside views, Wollongong offers options galore when it comes to charging infrastructure, including fast chargers from networks like Chargefox and Evie.
The final leg of the journey is through the idyllic towns of Gerrigong and Kiama, the latter most-famous for its natural blowhole, which has the capacity to spurt water up to 30 metres into the air. Kiama is extremely EV-compatible, with EV chargers installed conveniently right by the beach. A quick trip further south will lead you to Gerrigong, which provides a perfect balance of quintessential Australian imagery where green rolling hills meet the sea, and offers a chance to settle in for the night before making the journey back to Sydney the next day.
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Of all of Australia's legendary road trips, the Great Ocean Road may be the most recognised. Beginning at the beachside locale of Torquay, where you will be able to top up your EV outside the KFC in the middle of town, your Great Ocean Road journey will take you along the winding roads of Victoria's coast. Apollo Bay offers an EV stopover, including two ports at Great Ocean Road Brewhouse which offers a selection of 100 plus craft beers and stunning ocean views.
The next stage of your drive will provide opportunities for stopovers, including a nature tour with a conservation guide at Wildlife Wonders, koala-spotting near Kennett River, and a chance to experience the 12 Apostles. Public chargers are available at Cape Otway, Port Campbell and Southern Ocean Motor Inn along the way, before a chance to have an overnight stopover in Warrnambool. Here you are able to make the same picturesque trek back to Melbourne, or discover charging options in Colac, Birregura and Winchelsea on the road back to Geelong.
Pacific Coast Way, Queensland
For a more demanding but rewarding trip, Queensland's Pacific Coast Way is an 1800 kilometre journey that stretches from the Gold Coast to Tropical North Queensland. Begin your exploration of Australia's renowned sunshine state in the Gold Coast, where charging stations are widely available. Similarly, your next stop, Brisbane, offers charging opportunities but also a vibrant dining scene and plenty of outlets for art and culture lovers.
Head north and you will reach the Sunshine Coast, where rainforest trails, inimitable natural wonders, and a thriving craft beer scene await. There are charging stations located throughout the Sunshine Coast, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy Noosa National Park as well as hiking at the Glass House Mountains. To continue living it up in nature, your next stop, Fraser Coast, houses the world's biggest sand island and whale-watching at Hervey Bay.
The remainder of your journey will allow you to enjoy everything from rainforest hideaways to coral-fringed beaches. Driving the Pacific Coast Way will bring you to historic Queensland towns such as Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Cairns and Port Douglas, where charging stations are frequently situated to suit your long drive. Get charged, take the time to relax and discover one of Australia's most unforgettable coastal drives.
Ready for an EV road trip?
As Australia's investment into eco-friendly infrastructure increases overtime, so too will the appetite and demand for EV ownership. If you're looking to make the transition to a greener future, these road trips will enable you to experience the full potential of an EV vehicle. Be sure to explore Pickles' wide range of EVs, or visit our website to browse a selection of vehicles, machinery, industrial equipment and more.
14 Jul