Electric vehicles in Victoria could soon be running on solar thanks to a new research partnership and a funding boost from the Andrews Labor Government.

A new partnership between Delta Electronics, Nissan and CSIRO has started trialling solar smart technology electric vehicle chargers that are compatible with all electric vehicles currently on the market.

Delta Electronics has received $210,000 from the third round of the New Energy Jobs Fund to help further test and fine tune these next generation electric vehicle charging systems, which also include battery storage, in real-world applications.

The technology has been developed by Delta Electronics and CSIRO and the trials, run in partnership with Nissan, will test both fast and slow charging scenarios relevant to a range of Australian electricity grid and environmental conditions, particularly in regional and rural areas.

The commercial field trials are the final stage of this new technology’s development. Once commercially ready, the new technology will bring two charging platforms to the market.

The New Energy Jobs Fund supports growth in the uptake of renewable energy generation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, driving innovation in new energy technologies, and assists community groups to develop renewable energy projects.

The Government is putting more clean energy into the grid, increasing investment and driving down energy prices as part of its commitment to increase Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target (VRET) to 50 per cent by 2030.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“We know we need to reduce emissions in the transport sector and one of the best ways we can do that is to support partnerships like this one.”

“By encouraging electric vehicle take up, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and increase job opportunities in Victoria.”

“This battery smart storage platform means electric vehicle drivers can travel more confidently and enjoy the drive.”