Club Mudgee is set to receive an NRMA electric vehicle (EV) fast-charger in 2020.
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Bolstering the existing EV charging infrastructure in Mudgee and around the state, the 50 kilowatt (kW) DC fast-charger is part of an NRMA initiative to 'create Australia's largest electric vehicle charging network.'
A 50kW DC charger - like the one coming to Mudgee - can add approximately 45km of range in 10 minutes while more advanced chargers can add up to 400km of range in 15 minutes.
Both Club Mudgee and the NRMA were coy with details until closer to the date of operation but the Mudgee Guardian understands that Club Mudgee is updating their infrastructure and electrical power and the charger is expected to be completed within six months.
"The Mudgee charger will allow tourists to charge up and connect the route from Sydney to Mudgee via Lithgow. The charger will charge all EV vehicles," an NRMA spokesperson said.
The NRMA chargers feature two outlets, one CCS2 type plug and one CHAdeMO type plug to fit most electric vehicles.
Right now NRMA chargers are free to use but will be paid once the NRMA makes that change in the future, though they say the chargers will remain free for members.
What other options are there?
If you're the owner of an EV, you already have a number of options when it comes to filling up your car, though the introduction of the NRMA charger can make life a lot easier if you're passing through.
Right now Mudgee has five 'destination chargers' compatible with Tesla vehicles and other EVs with an adapter. These chargers are rated at 22kW and are more suited to charging overnight or while you're eating or exploring town, giving about 60-120km of range every hour depending on conditions.
They are located at The Zin House, Petersons Wines, Blue Wren Wines, The Stables/Mudgee Information Centre and The Winning Post. These chargers are typically free to use at the discretion of the business owner.
EV owners can also charge at home with included chargers from a 240v outlet at 2-7kW depending on the wiring at the home.
If you're travelling, then tools like Plugshare allow drivers to find one of hundreds of thousands of chargers in Australia to fill up when driving long distances.