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Western Australia’s electric vehicle trial

The RAC is participating in Western Australia’s first electric vehicle trial.
 
The trial involves 10 electric vehicles being used in government and private fleets over a two year period. During this time, data from the vehicles will be collected and analysed to evaluate what needs to be done to prepare Western Australia for the future use of electric vehicles as well as the opportunities it presents for the motoring industry.
 
As part of the trial, the RAC will operate an electric vehicle and has installed a charging station at its West Perth building.
 
Along with the RAC the other participants in the trial are CO2Smart, UWA, Department of Transport, Telstra, Water Corporation, City of Perth, City of Swan, Main Roads WA, The West Australian, Department of Environment and Conservation, LandCorp, and City of Mandurah.
 
If you would like to comment on the electric vehicle trial or would like more information please email advocacy@rac.com.au

Read more about electric vehicles in the real world

Electric Vehicles FAQs

Electric Vehicle Launch at RAC - 24/11/2010

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The electric vehicle

Western Australia’s electric vehicle trial will use converted Ford Focus sedans. A converted vehicle was chosen over an existing electric vehicle to give Western Australia an opportunity to learn about the technology involved and utilise the expertise that exists in the State. There are also a limited number of electric vehicles available in Australia and purchasing enough for the trial would have been problematic.

The Ford Focus was chosen as the vehicle for conversion based on its weight, space, price, and the resale value of unused parts.
RAC Electric Vehicle

The charging station

Electric Vehicle charging stationThe RAC has installed one electric vehicle charging station at its West Perth building. This is referred to as a level two charging station, which means it can charge the vehicle in half the time of a regular household outlet.

The charging station can be accessed via a swipe card and it records information about charging times and patterns. The charging station can be used by all EV trial participants.

Any members who operate an electric vehicle and would like to use the charging station can do so by signing up to participate in the trial. To do this contact Linda Barbour at UWA, ph: 6488 3897, fax 6488 1168, email: lindab@ee.uwa.edu.au