Evolution flown south for the Spring

The Evolution is definitely here! With 10,248* EVS registered in New Zealand to date and growing all the time, it’s no passing phase, that’s for sure!

And with this Evolution, the biggest changes are happening not in Auckland, but in the far south.

Christchurch City Council was one of the first organisations to adopt Yoogo Share for its fleet – a fully electric car sharing service to provide an efficient and clean way for its staff to move throughout the city.

Yoogo Share piloted in Christchurch for both businesses and residents, enables Cantabrians to experience the

‘EV grin’ with an effective form of transport but not the upfront or ownership costs of an EV – genius!

The charging network in Christchurch is growing, with the help of Yoogo, who are building the network to support their car sharing.

If you’re still not converted to fleet sharing and want to upgrade your ICE (internal combustion engine, or petrol car) to an environmentally friendly, costeffective EV, there are plenty of options.

The most popular and affordable EV is the Nissan Leaf. Auckland’s Hayden Johnston from GVI Electric at August’s Evworld NZ highlighted the importance of going to a reputable dealer and getting the Leaf Spy report for your Leaf before buying.

There are many Leafs on Trademe, retailing for as low as $9,900 for a 2011 Leaf. Their battery life is shorter, but they’re great for most trips you’ll be doing around town.

A Nissan Leaf will cost you about $200 in maintenance every year – much cheaper than an ICE car; and will increase in maintenance costs by $6 per annum, the price of a hazelnut latte with an extra shot!

The Air Force Museum in Christchurch played host to November’s inaugural Evworld South event – the South Island version of the highly successful Evworld NZ event held in Auckland this past two years. The show saw wide range of vehicles on display – including the Hyundai IONIQ and the Kona electric.

Exhibitors included car companies, e-bike retailers, energy companies, charging infrastructure and ride sharing initiatives.