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Holden Volt: Better Place named EV charging partner

Holden has named Better Place as its preferred partner for delivering fast charging and renewable energy solutions for customers of the upcoming Holden Volt extended range electric vehicle.


The agreement will see Better Place develop membership packages for Volt customers and assist in the installation of higher-speed ‘Charge Spots’ at owners’ homes and workplaces.

Unlike the recently released Nissan Leaf, the Holden Volt can be recharged from a standard 240-volt 10-amp household power point, with a full charge of the 16.5kWh lithium-ion battery taking less than six hours.

Recharged from a 240-volt 15-amp Better Place Charge Spot, the battery can be topped up in less than four hours.

Holden says a full battery recharge can cost as little as $2.50, and in the right conditions can propel the Volt in zero-emissions electric mode for up to 87km.

Better Place is the operator of Australia’s largest 100 per cent renewable energy electric car charging network, sourcing its power from wind, solar and hydro providers.

To extend the Volt’s potential range beyond 600km, a 1.4-litre petrol engine kicks in, acting as a generator to recharge the battery to continue turning the electric motor. The Volt is fitted with a 35-litre fuel tank and requires 95RON premium unleaded petrol.

Holden energy and environment director Richard Marshall says he expects Better Place Charge Spots to be popular with fleets who plan to predominantly run their Volts on the initial battery charge.

“The Volt is unique among electric cars as it can charge from a regular household outlet, but we know from overseas’ experience that Volt customers are likely to also look for faster charging options,” Marshall said.

“And while the Volt is not restricted in range compared to other standard electric vehicles, we do expect that drivers will prefer to drive on battery only wherever possible.”

Earlier this month Holden confirmed the Volt would be priced from $59,990 before on-road costs when the single-variant line-up hits local showrooms around November.

The Cruze-sized hatchback will be equipped with premium features to help offset the high initial cost. Included as standard will be 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, seven-inch touch screen with satellite navigation and rear-view camera, and a six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition and a 30GB hard drive.

The Volt’s advanced safety package includes forward collision alert, lane departure warning and eight airbags.

The Volt is available to order now from Holden’s 49 approved Volt dealerships.

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