EV Chargers at Ranfurly Village
Ranfurly Village News
There has been rapid growth in electric vehicle uptake in New Zealand over the last few years and there is no doubt that e-mobility is the way of the future. However, electric vehicles are still a relatively new technology, particularly for older generation who are simply unfamiliar with them. Whilst there is no high demand currently among the residents for EV charging, it is about futureproofing to meet the projected increase of electric vehicles within the village. We want to ensure easily accessible and secure charging options for the residents as their confidence increases. The village fast chargers provide further assurance to cover day-to-day charging needs and also allow the visitors [family and friends] to use these facilities on occasion.
What was the drive behind installing EV chargers at Ranfurly village.
There has been rapid growth in electric vehicle uptake in New Zealand over the last few years and there is no doubt that e-mobility is the way of the future. However, electric vehicles are still a relatively new technology, particularly for older generation who are simply unfamiliar with them. Whilst there is no high demand currently among the residents for EV charging, it is about futureproofing to meet the projected increase of electric vehicles within the village. We want to ensure easily accessible and secure charging options for the residents as their confidence increases. The village fast chargers provide further assurance to cover day-to-day charging needs and also allow the visitors [family and friends] to use these facilities on occasion.
Are all cars in Ranfurly Village’s fleet electric?
The village fleet is very small consisting only of a van for group activities and maintenance vehicle. These are currently not electric, however we are considering EV with any new vehicles and/or replacement vehicles. This was also one of the considerations for installing the charging stations on site.
The recent vehicle purchases in the wider Generus Living Group villages have all been electric.
Please tell me about the EV Chargers at Ranfurly?
We selected 3-Phase Smart EV Chargers. Evnex products are designed and manufactured in New Zealand with the circular economy in mind. They are very simple to use. When the charger reaches the end of its life, the charges can be returned for recycling.
Will the use of electric vehicles help reduce the Village’s carbon footprint?
Transport makes up 21% of New Zealand’s carbon footprint, and most of that comes from the light vehicle fleet – cars, vans and utes.
According to Climate Change Comission, an EV used in Aotearoa emits about 60% fewer emissions over its full life cycle than an equivalent petrol vehicle.
Initiatives like adding EV charging stations within the village, strongly support the uptake of electric vehicles among residents – it is about easy access to charging and the peace of mind.
However, it is important to remember that it is not just about electric vehicles — it is about reducing our car use overall, from using more public transport to using other ‘active transport’ like cycling and walking. We are thrilled that Ranfurly residents have a great access to public transport, and the village offers regular group outings with the village van to assist to reduce our carbon footprint.
Do many of the residents drive electric cars?
We have seen an increase in the use of hybrid vehicles in recent years. We know of few residents who have considered an electric vehicle and one of the residents recently has changed over to an EV and is actively using the charging station. With the overall popularity of the electric vehicles in New Zealand, we predict there will be more and more residents considering EVs going forward.
How important is sustainability to Ranfurly Village?
At Ranfurly we are passionate about creating a special place that reflects the heritage of our location and past. The village has a unique personality blending contemporary apartment living with superb hospitality within a historic precinct. It is a beautiful and vibrant community, who feels strongly about a sustainable lifestyle.
These sentiments have been very evident in the village resident survey responses - there is a strong interest to do more both on individual level and as a retirement village community. The resident feedback forms an important part of the development of the Ranfurly Village Sustainability programme.
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