Australian startup EVOS Energy has raised $4 million in funding, spearheaded by Ampol, the country’s largest transport fuels company. The investment is timely given that electric vehicles are rapidly being adopted, and there is an increasing demand for charging stations.
Ampol Partnership and National Commitment
Ampol, a significant fuel supplier, has partnered with EVOS to collaborate on the growth of charging services for electric vehicles. This strategic partnership is focused on the essential issue of range anxiety by proposing affordable and effective charging services. Another aspect is that Ampol did not limit itself to different service stations. It plans to have over 100 sites with EV charge points and over 300 charging bays by 2023-24. This nationwide campaign corresponds with a shift in the Australian transport industry.
EVOS SB7 EV Charger
The EVOS SB7 EV charger, locally developed and produced in Australia, will occupy a strategic place in the charging system. Ampol aims to install an SB7 charger at most of its service stations across the country in the current financial year. With 1852 Ampol stations all over the country, this step will greatly boost the charging infrastructure for EVs.
Home Charging Revolution
The SB7 charger costs less than 2000 AU dollars per device, which can be considered a rather reasonable price for owners of electric vehicles. Smart charging allows users to charge their vehicles depending on factors like off-peak tariffs, photovoltaic panels, or batteries. They are not limiting themselves to the public charging stations; EVOS and Ampol are not stopping. They are also reinventing home charging. The SB7 charger will be provided by Ampol for use at home so that citizens can charge their EVs at home. These chargers can also be bought by the strata companies for the multi-unit buildings, extending the charging points.
Other Initiatives where Ampol is involved
There are several efforts that Ampol is involved in that aim to promote sustainability and positive impact. In the case of climate change, Ampol has a clear stand, noting that the company practices responsibility while seeking to reduce emissions. Ethical and compliant behavior is fostered among Ampol’s suppliers so that full disclosure is maintained. This company ensures that it promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within its workforce. Ampol has policies prohibiting infringement on human rights in any undertaking. The Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan of Ampol addresses safety issues, youths, and education to build a good rapport with the Indigenous population. These initiatives show commitment to sustainability, social responsibilities, and improved long-term shareholder value.
Ampol’s Renewable Energy Initiatives
Ampol has made sustainability a priority for its business, including the development of renewable energy sources. Ampol builds a suitable strategic foothold on its main strengths and resources in new energy products and services. They also intend to hold several positions as the energy transition path emerges over the years. Ampol’s future energy development investment will not exceed $15 million by the end of 2023. Ampol is also in the process of recruiting a panel of professionals to advise on its strategy for sustainability.
Ampol is gradually increasing the availability of EV charging stations in owned stations. Its recently purchased fuel retail business in New Zealand, namely Z Energy, also invests in charging stations. Currently, Ampol sources most of the required power for its Western Australian retail network from renewable energy sources. Also, they are deploying solar rooftops with EV chargers. Ampol’s focus on renewable power sources also supports its mission of electrification of the transport sector.
Conclusion
The partnership between Ampol and EVOS is a bold move that can be considered a transition to a sustainable and electrified future. With the increasing trend of EV adoption, affordable Charging solutions such as the SB7 will be instrumental in seeing Australia through the transition to clean mobility.
