First Charging Site Launches in Melbourne with Shared Capacity of 200 kW
Australian supermarket chain Coles and electric vehicle charging network operator Evie Networks have officially launched a nationwide initiative to install fast-charging stations at 30 stores over the next two years. The first charging site went live on July 27 at Coles Middle Camberwell in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, marking the beginning of the partnership.
The Middle Camberwell site is equipped with two Kempower dual-plug charging stations, providing four charging bays with a maximum shared capacity of 200 kW. Coles stated that the installation aims to allow EV drivers to charge their vehicles while shopping, integrating charging services into customers’ daily routines. Jane Mansfield, Coles’ head of energy, noted that EV drivers generally seek convenient charging options at locations they frequently visit, with charging times aligning with their stay duration. Through this partnership with Evie Networks, Coles aims to enhance the accessibility of its charging network.
Mansfield emphasized that Coles will prioritize areas where EV adoption is growing and demand for charging infrastructure is high, ensuring its store network evolves in line with customer needs and the expanding EV market. She added that EV charging is becoming an increasingly important factor in customer convenience, and Coles is committed to building a more accessible charging network to meet the rising demand in the EV market.
Charging Sites to Roll Out Across Victoria and Queensland Stores
Coles plans to launch charging stations at multiple stores in Victoria and Queensland by the end of 2026, including new stores at Orana Village and Beveridge in Victoria, as well as new and existing stores at Annerley and Milton Village in Queensland. Chris Mills, CEO of Evie Networks, stated that supermarkets are ideal locations for EV charging, as they naturally fit into drivers’ daily routines. This partnership will help expand the coverage of fast-charging networks and support more drivers in transitioning to electric vehicles.
Mills pointed out that as the EV market grows rapidly, the availability of charging infrastructure will directly influence consumer adoption. As Australia’s largest fast-charging network operator, Evie Networks will use this partnership to further improve the accessibility and convenience of charging services. Coles customers can use the Evie app to locate charging stations, check real-time availability, initiate charging sessions, and complete payments, with the entire process managed through the application.
This collaboration not only strengthens Coles’ presence in the EV charging sector but also reflects the proactive response of Australian retailers to the development of the EV market. As charging stations continue to roll out, Coles expects to attract more EV drivers to its stores while promoting the widespread adoption of charging infrastructure across Australia. The currently announced charging sites span multiple regions in Melbourne, Victoria, and Queensland, with further expansion planned based on market demand and EV adoption trends.
