Revolution has arrived: an electric servo, conveniently close at hand
In the bustling city of Melbourne, the landscape for electric vehicle (EV) owners is rapidly changing, thanks to the growth and expansion of public charging networks. This development has significantly impacted the practicality, convenience, and efficiency of EV usage in the city.
## Scale
Melbourne has witnessed a noteworthy increase in charging points, making EVs a more viable option for daily commuting. As of 2025, there are multiple fast charger sites, including shopping centers equipped with several charge points, offering ample options for EV owners[3]. The strategic placement of these charging stations in convenient locations such as supermarkets and shopping centers has reduced the need for mental maps to find charging points[3].
## Speed
The introduction of fast chargers has significantly reduced charging times, allowing EV owners to quickly top up their vehicles. This is particularly beneficial for those who need to charge on the go[3]. With the spread of fast charging infrastructure, EV owners can more easily plan their journeys, knowing that quick charging is available when needed.
## Reliability
The focus on service models, spare part management, and quick repair times has improved the overall reliability of the charging network, providing reassurance to EV owners[1]. Companies like go EV have deployed reliable chargers across Australia, including Melbourne, with positive feedback from customers regarding their performance[1].
One notable development in the local charging network is the addition of reliable fast chargers at a nearby supermarket, marking a new phase in the city's EV charging landscape[2].
While the average cost of a fill has been $9.60 over the last twelve months, the energy cost is cheaper than that of a traditional petrol car, but not by a significant margin[4]. The average EV in Melbourne travels around 150 km a week, which is 60% of the Victorian average of 240 km a week[5]. The car is charged to keep the battery level in the middle band of 25% to 85%, with a minimum of 50% to ensure the ability to get from home to a charger[6].
The servo near the article's author's location stays in business despite only being able to refuel five cars at a time due to its shop sales providing 70% of its profit[7]. In contrast, the servo network in the area is shrinking, with many stations being demolished or repurposed[4].
Despite the challenges faced by the early public charging network, such as out-of-stock situations, water in the can, and lack of change, which are similar to the problems faced by early petrol retailers in the early 1900s[8], the improvements in the charging network have made EV ownership more appealing. The car, which is charged at the public charging network, has a nominal range of over 300 km, but in practice, it is charged once a week[9].
The shopping centre opened a charge site with eight charge points, leading to the abandonment of the underground Aldi and the difficult car park near the bike shop[10]. The four-charger site in another local shopping centre was recently expanded to eight chargers and is now open to all comers[11]. However, rising charge prices are approaching fuel cost parity, with 64¢ kWh being the going rate in 2023[12].
In conclusion, the expansion of public charging networks in Melbourne has made EV ownership more appealing by offering a broader range of charging options, faster charging speeds, and improved reliability. The police will now have to come to the new charging locations, reflecting the growing importance of EVs in the city's transportation landscape.
- The growth and expansion of public charging networks have transformed the automotive industry landscape in Melbourne, making electric vehicles (EVs) a more practical option for daily transportation.
- With the availability of multiple fast charger sites and the strategic placement of charging stations at convenient locations like shopping centers, the practicality and convenience of EV usage in the city have significantly improved.
- As more fast chargers are introduced, the charging times for EVs have been reduced, making it easier for EV owners to quickly top up their vehicles, even if they need to charge on the go.
- Companies specializing in EV charging, such as go EV, have deployed reliable chargers across the city, enhancing the overall reliability of the charging network and making EV ownership more appealing to lifestyle-conscious individuals who prefer gadgets and technology-focused cars.
