Origin Energy, one of Australia’s big three energy utilities, has announced a new electric vehicle (EV) subscription service that includes five hours of free electricity each day. The service is designed to make it easier and more affordable for Australians to access EVs, power them, and pay for them. It will be facilitated through employee salary sacrificing, taking advantage of the recent fringe benefit tax exemption for EVs.
The subscription plan is intended to encourage customers to charge their EVs during the day when there is an abundance of solar energy on the grid, rather than in the evenings when demand is higher. Customers will also benefit from off-peak night rates between 1am and 6am. The 5 free hours and off-peak rates are available to customers who sign up to the subscription plan, purchase a smart EV charger from Origin, or are Audi e-tron customers as part of a new partnership between both companies.
Origin has already launched the subscription plan to its own employees in January and has had around 400 requests for quotes, with about 50 employees signing up so far. Customers can select from a range of EVs including the Volvo XC40, Tesla Model Y and Model 3 and Polestar 2, as well as BYD, Kia, Hyundai and MG EVs. Subscription pricing starts from $500 per week for a Tesla Model 3 on pre-taxed salary.
While Origin’s EV subscription service is a step in the right direction, the company is still one of Australia’s worst polluters. In 2022, it was listed as the fourth highest greenhouse gas emitter by the Clean Energy Regulator. Origin has since yielded to public pressure and announced it would exit from gas exploration, starting with the Beetaloo Basin. The US funds giant Brookfield, which is bidding to take control of Origin, plans to invest $20 billion in renewables by 2030.
For those interested in making the switch to an electric vehicle, Origin’s EV subscription service may be worth considering. However, people should do their own research to determine if this is the best option for them. Ultimately, most people who are looking to make the switch to EVs are also conscious of reducing their overall emissions.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
