With an all-inclusive plan, Origin’s EV subscription lets you experience the thrill of driving an electric car without the long-term commitment of ownership. Whether you’re looking to test the waters before making the switch, an EV subscription gives you peace of mind and financial flexibility. 

Plus, with the rising cost of fuel, it’s a great time to explore the world of driving electric. So why not see for yourself if an EV fits into your life? 

Here are three compelling reasons why an EV subscription could be your perfect match. 

1. You can try before you buy

We’ve all been there, contemplating whether to purchase an item we’ve had our eye on for years. You’re unsure whether it’s a smart financial decision or if it aligns with your lifestyle. If this sounds like you when it comes to an EV, you’re in luck. The beauty of an EV subscription is that you can try an EV before committing to a purchase^#. With its flexibility, convenience, and potential tax savings,*** an EV subscription allows you to trial an EV without the long-term financial commitment.  

As you know EVs are a big upfront purchase. Take the BYD Seal as an example, which starts from $49,888. However, with an Origin subscription, you can get it from just $217 per week (salary packaged). 

2. You can try different EVs without a lock-in contract

If you’re not entirely sure which car is right for you, you can try different EVs with no lock-in contracts! With Origin EV subscriptions you get the freedom to return or subscribe to a different car with just 30 days’ notice**. 

With loads of subscriptions to choose from (depending on your budget of course), including BYD, Kia, Polestar Tesla and Toyota, you’re spoilt for choice. All of these vehicles also come in at different price points, catering to a range of budgets.

To give you an insight into the prices, you can get a Tesla Model Y from $298 per week, a BYD Atto 3 from $251 per week or a Kia EV5 Air from $309 per week. 

3. There may be tax savings

Origin offers a salary package EV subscription that allows you to experience the perks of an electric vehicle and potentially save on taxes. The subscription has all-inclusive pricing, with insurance, registration, tyres, and maintenance included in one simple payment. You can opt for an annual subscription, where you get access to a cost reduction of 15% for up to five years, or you also have the option to purchase the car after three years. 

My experience with an EV

This summer, I tried the BYD Seal. Currently, I have a Tesla Model Y, so I wanted to see how the BYD Seal compares, and it honestly surprised me. 

Here’s what stood out to me: the navigation is a game-changer, especially on busy highways. It’s got Apple CarPlay, and you can rotate the screen—it’s like having a giant iPad in your car. Plus, there’s a panoramic parking view. 

The driving experience is smooth and quiet, and with a 460 km range on a single charge, it’s perfect for summer road trips. 

What really made this experience worth it was the flexibility and convenience of the subscription. I could also try something new without having buyer’s remorse. 

Why an EV subscription might be right for you

If you’ve been eyeing an EV for a while now and are still unsure whether to take the plunge, then an EV subscription might just be for you. With an Origin EV subscription, you can drive an EV without having to pay the full up front costs and commit to a purchase.  

In addition to the low costs and commitment, the EV subscription is great for people who want an all-inclusive and hassle-free option. With a flexible plan, you can try out as many EVs as possible — allowing you to switch or cancel cars without long-term commitments.

Final thoughts

I had a great experience driving the BYD Seal and would recommend the EV to anyone who is thinking of trying out an EV. The flexibility, low costs, all-inclusive pricing, and potential tax savings of Origin’s EV subscriptions are totally worth it! 

Curious about trying out an EV Subscription?

The post 3 reasons why an EV subscription could be perfect for you appeared first on The Origin Blog.

The state of play

Australia is experiencing a rise in apartment living and increasing EV adoption. According to the 2021 Census, over 2.5 million Australians – or more than 10% – now reside in apartments. Simultaneously, the popularity of EVs is growing, with predictions that by 2030, half of all new cars will be electric. 

Having the right infrastructure is essential to facilitating EV charging in residential and commercial buildings. New (greenfield) and existing (brownfield) buildings require similar backbone infrastructure – especially when multiple chargers are to be installed and used. Whether they already have this infrastructure in place is the big question.

What infrastructure is needed for EV-ready buildings?

Each building is unique – with varying power capacities/supply and demand (peak and off-peak), parking layout, existing electrical infrastructure, age of building, solar installations, storage and other specific requirements.   

Buildings requiring multiple EV chargers need an energy distribution system – or ‘backbone’ – as well as a dynamic load management system (LMS) to safely manage the building’s power.  

The LMS prioritises the power required by the building and its residents while distributing surplus energy for EV charging, balancing the building’s energy needs and the demands of multiple EV chargers.

What’s the difference between new and existing builds?

To future-proof new buildings, the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 has mandated all class 2 residential buildings to provide EV-ready infrastructure to 100% car park spots, facilitating the easy installation of EV chargers as needed. However, existing buildings may or may not have this infrastructure in place. 

Approximately 1 in 4 Victorians live in strata-managed residential buildings that haven’t been set up for EV charging, leaving those with an EV – or considering making the switch – without the option to charge at home. 

Deploying backbone infrastructure and LMS in existing apartment buildings has added layers of complexity and cost, compared to new builds. 

We’re working with ARENA to address this issue for owners’ corporations and residents in apartment buildings, helping Australians overcome barriers to EV adoption. 

We’re developing a solution for existing buildings that includes EV charging technology along with backbone infrastructure. ARENA has provided $4.2 million through its Driving the Nation program to help fund 16 projects across the country.

How different is this to installing a single-dwelling charger?

The primary difference between installing a home charger in a single dwelling and setting up multiple chargers in high-density residential or commercial buildings lies in the scale of infrastructure required.   

A single home needs minimal setup, while buildings with multiple tenants require a more robust EV backbone to handle higher electrical loads. This ensures efficient, simultaneous charging for multiple vehicles while maintaining the overall power balance for the building.  

What types of EV chargers are available?

There are three main types of EV chargers: standard wall socket chargers, AC dedicated wall or pole-mounted chargers, and fast or rapid DC chargers for public use.

What software is required?

Our dedicated software platform, Origin 360 EV Charge, provides building managers with a customised dashboard with a view of all chargers, their locations and operating status.   

The software simplifies and secures access to EV chargers using RFID cards and a mobile phone app, streamlining billing and reimbursement for building managers and residents.

Benefits for residents

• Convenient EV charging: Residents can schedule their charging for off-peak times and make the most of lower electricity rates if on a time of use energy tariff. The cost of charging can, depending on the technology, be billed directly back to their electricity account.
• Public charger access: Residents may also have access to public EV chargers while on the road through consolidated charging services, which could also include the convenience of a single billing account.

Benefits for owner’s corporations

• Future proof your building: Amenities that help make life easier for residents may drive increased rental demand and return. 
• EV charger monetisation: Offer shared EV charging facilities and pass on the charging costs to the user. Smart charging software monitors charging and can collect payments from users, ensuring charging costs are reimbursed to building management.

Charging as a service (CAAS) subscription

To reduce upfront costs, Origin 360 EV offers Charging as a Service (CaaS), a low-risk way to get your building EV ready. How does this work? We design, fund, build, and maintain your EV charging infrastructure for a fixed monthly fee.  

Want to learn more?

The post Helping apartment buildings get EV ready appeared first on The Origin Blog.

What kind of EV should you choose?

Like petrol cars, today’s EVs come in all styles and sizes. From compact cars to larger SUVs, each model comes with its own benefits. 

• Compact EVs: Ideal for city driving and smaller budgets, the MG4, BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora and Mini Cooper SE are all great examples of compact cars that punch above their weight.
• Electric SUVs: Families often look for more space, greater efficiency, and enhanced safety features.  From the top-selling Tesla Model Y to the seven-seater Kia EV9, luxurious BMW iX3 and everything in between, there’s an SUV for all kinds of families. 
• Performance EVs: Electric cars are known for their quick acceleration and smooth drive. Some models, like the Kia EV6, focus on dynamic performance and handling, while others, such as the Tesla Model 3, offer greater range and efficiency. 

How much range and battery life do you need? 

Battery range describes how far your EV can travel on a single charge. Modern EVs have a variety of battery ranges, starting from around 300 km to over 600 km per single charge. Your specific needs and driving habits will determine the range that’s right for you.  

Some things to think about include: 

• Daily commute: Think about how much or how far you’re travelling. Most people drive less than 40 km a day for daily commuting and city driving – which all EVs comfortably cover. 
• Long-distance travel: If you frequently take long journeys, look for an EV with a longer range or plan your routes with charging stations in mind. 
• Impacts on driving range: It’s also worth noting that driving style and different conditions (like extra weight, weather, driving speed and terrain) can affect an EV’s range. 

What charging options are available?

There are plenty of options available to charge an EV, each with different costs and charging speeds. It’s good to get an idea of the types of charging infrastructure available to you, including: 

• Home charging: Most EV owners will charge at home overnight, like they do when charging their smartphone. Simply plug the mobile charging cable into a standard power outlet to charge your vehicle. For quicker and more convenient charging, you could consider installing a Level 2 EV charger. 
• Smart charging: Home charging can be even more cost effective if you have solar installed. This is because you can charge during the day and take advantage of the energy that your panels are producing.
• Scheduled charging: You can also leverage smart charging capabilities, like EV Power Up, which works by finding low-cost energy to charge your EV at a super low 8c/kWh rate – which may include when there is excess solar during the day or when demand is low overnight – and avoids charging during peak demand times when energy is usually at its most expensive. Allowing you to fully charge your EV for as little as $5.
• Public charging: EV charging stations are becoming more prevalent in Australia, making it convenient to top up your EV on the go. Apps and websites like PlugShare can help you find nearby chargers and plan routes if you’re heading on a roadtrip. 

We can also help install EV chargers at your home, in apartment buildings and your business*.  

What are the costs and incentives for EVs?

The costs of EVs in Australia are becoming more competitive. More and more models are becoming available, at different price points. Although the initial purchase price could be higher than a traditional vehicle, you’ll also want to consider any cost incentives and long-term savings that may be available with an EV. 

• Financial incentives: Various states and territories may offer rebates or grants for purchasing EVs or installing EV chargers. You could also consider packaging an electric vehicle through your employer to help save on taxes. 
• Lower running costs: Electric cars are often cheaper to run and may include fuel savings of up to 70% and maintenance savings of around 40%. Driving an electric vehicle could save you thousands of dollars per year, compared to petrol or diesel cars. 
• Free or discounted charging: Some local councils, shopping centres and charging providers (like JOLT Australia) offer free or subsidised charging for EV drivers.  

How long do you plan to keep the car?

There are long-term and short-term options for getting your first EV, depending on your budget and needs. Purchasing an EV has its benefits, while subscriptions and leases are more flexible options. 

• Long-term ownership: If you’re confident your vehicle needs won’t change and prefer to own the car outright, purchasing an EV could be the right option for you. Other options, including financing and novated leasing, may be suitable for long-term use of the vehicle. 
• Short-term options: An EV subscription offers a great alternative, especially if you’re uncertain about your future needs. Our all-inclusive subscription plan allows you to return, upgrade or switch to a different vehicle if your situation changes. Plus, with Origin, if you fall in love with your EV, you have the option to purchase it after three years. 

Make the switch to an EV with Origin

Getting your first EV can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially as Australia moves towards more sustainable transportation. From EV subscriptions to smart charging solutions, we can help you get started on your EV journey.  

Exploring these five key factors — vehicle type, range and battery life, charging options, costs and incentives, and ownership models — will help you make a decision that suits your needs. 

The post 5 things to consider before buying your first EV appeared first on The Origin Blog.

1. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y was Australia’s best-selling EV in 2023 and it continues to dominate the market with its blend of performance and utility. This all-electric SUV offers a range of up to 455 km (RWD variant) or 533 km (Long Range variant) on a single charge, making it perfect for long drives. With its spacious interior, 5-star ANCAP safety rating, and rapid acceleration, the Model Y remains the top contender for families and tech enthusiasts. 

Tesla Model Y pricing and details > 

2. Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is ideal for those seeking a sleek, high-performance sedan. Known for its impressive driving range of between 513 km (RWD variant) to 629 km (Long Range variant) on a single charge and cutting-edge technology, the Model 3 delivers an all-round driving experience. Its minimalist interior design and state-of-the-art infotainment system sets the standard for modern electric vehicles. 

Tesla Model 3 pricing and details > 

3. BMW i4 eDrive 35

The BMW i4 eDrive 35 is a striking electric sedan that delivers luxury and performance on all fronts. With its powerful electric drivetrain and driving range of up to 430 km on a single charge, the i4 eDrive 35 offers impressive acceleration and smooth handling. Its sleek exterior is matched by a sophisticated interior featuring high-quality materials, heated seats and a glass sunroof. Earning the hearts of our subscribers. 

BMW i4 eDrive 35 pricing and details > 

4. Polestar 2

For those who value performance and design, the Polestar 2 could be the right fit. This stylish sedan features an impressive range between 518 km (Standard variant) and 591 km (Long Range variant) on a single charge and is equipped with a high-tech interior.  

Plus, with Google Assistant, Google Maps and the Google Play Store all integrated into the car’s interface—the Polestar 2 isn’t just a high-performance EV, but also a tech-savvy one.  

Polestar 2 pricing and details > 

5. BMW iX1 X Drive M Sport

The BMW iX1 xDrive M Sport is a compact electric SUV that stands out with its athletic styling, dynamic performance and refined features. It offers a driving range of up to 460 km on a single charge and an impressive 510 L of cargo space. This SUV also includes a luxurious cabin, advanced driver assistance systems and fast-charging capabilities. An ideal option for families looking for a sophisticated yet practical ride. 

BMW iX1 pricing and details >

6. BYD Atto 3

The BYD Atto 3 has made waves with its affordable price tag and impressive features. This compact SUV provides a driving range of around 420 km on a single charge and offers a spacious cabin filled with modern amenities that cater to both practicality and comfort. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on style or functionality. 

BYD Atto 3 pricing and details > 

7. Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 was the brand’s first EV to debut in Australia, boasting innovative features and a driving range of up to 528 km on a single charge. With impressive driving performance, fast-charging capabilities and futuristic design, it became a fan favourite in record time. The Kia EV6 was the 2022 carsales Car of the Year and continues to be a popular choice for our subscription customers. 

Kia EV6 pricing and details > 

8. Mercedes EQB 250

The Mercedes EQB 250 is an electric seven-seater SUV that combines Mercedes Benz’s timeless design with electric performance. Its sleek, modern design is complemented by a spacious, high-tech interior that offers versatile seating and ample cargo space. With a driving range of up to 371 km on a single charge, it’s a luxurious family car that’s great for both school runs and weekend adventures. 

Mercedes EQB pricing and details > 

9. MG4

The MG4 was named 2023 carsales Car of the Year for its outstanding performance and value. This compact hatchback boasts a driving range of up to 435 km on a single charge, a powerful electric drivetrain, advanced safety features and stylish design. The MG4 has become a popular choice for those seeking a high-performance EV without breaking the bank. 

MG4 pricing and details > 

10. Volvo XC40 Recharge

Volvo’s XC40 Recharge delivers a refined driving experience that perfectly combines style and sophistication. Inside this compact SUV is a high-quality, minimalist interior with a large touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Paired with advanced safety features and a driving range of up to 500 km on a single charge, the XC40 Recharge is a favourite with those who value both luxury and practicality. 

Volvo XC40 Recharge pricing and details > 

Latest EVs on offer from Origin

There are over 30 different vehicles available under our EV subscription service, with more being added as new EVs arrive in Australia. Our latest models include the BYD Seal, Kia EV9 and Toyota BZ4X which have been in hot demand. New releases are also expected soon for the Polestar 4, BMW iX2 and Kia EV5, while new players such as Xpeng, Leapmotor and Zeekr are set to enter the Australian market in the coming months. 

If you’re in the market for an EV, an EV subscription from Origin could be a more flexible and convenient alternative compared to traditional financing models, such as novated leasing or purchasing outright.  

Our EV subscription plans are available for personal or business use, and come complete with registration, insurance, servicing and roadside assistance for a simple monthly fee.  

You can subscribe now, purchase later and return with 30 days’ notice. Plus, with anniversary discounts and potential access to tax savings – there’s no better time to make the switch. 

Whether you’re exploring EVs for personal use or for business, we’ve got you covered. 

The post 10 most popular EVs on subscription in 2024 appeared first on The Origin Blog.

Build a financial case

Businesses often express concerns about the costs associated with transitioning their fleets to EVs, however the financial landscape for EV adoption is becoming increasingly favourable.  

This change is driven by the availability of incentives and more affordable EV models. There was a time when the initial purchase price of EVs was significantly higher than their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, but with the introduction of more than 27 brands to choose from at various price points, the upfront costs for EVs are now starting to now be comparable to ICE vehicles. What hasn’t changed though is the reduced running costs, which strengthens the case for transitioning to an electric fleet. 

A key policy designed to help facilitate this shift is the Electric Car Discount Bill (2022), which eliminates the fringe benefits tax (FBT) for eligible EVs within fleets. Removing FBT represents potentially considerable cost savings for eligible EV owners, particularly for take-home vehicles, and makes the economic argument for integrating EVs into fleets stronger. 

The importance of starting today

With the financial barriers to EV adoption being mitigated, fleet managers can now focus on planning and executing their fleets’ transition to EVs. Starting this process sooner rather than later is crucial when aiming to stay ahead in the move towards electrification. Starting now will ensure fleets are well-prepared for the inevitable shift towards an EV future. 

While it may not be feasible for some businesses to transition their entire fleet at once, it’s worthwhile to get started on the journey – even if it’s just one EV at a time. An EV pilot program enables businesses to get familiar with the EV landscape and figure out what vehicles suit their needs. 

The more proactive businesses are today, the better prepared they will be for legislative changes such as the proposed New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), that could impact the cost to run or reduce the future value of an ICE fleet.   

Reducing fleet carbon emissions

Transport is currently Australia’s third largest source of emissions, with 60 per cent of Australia’s CO2 emissions generated through ICE passenger vehicles and light trucks. Companies making the shift to EVs demonstrate leadership and will be contributing to a cleaner future. 

What steps do you need to take to get started?

1. Evaluate your current fleet

Identifying EV opportunities begins with a deep understanding of fleet operational requirements and needs. Conducting a review can generate insights to inform an EV transition strategy, such as: 

• How employees adapt to the new technology 
• Bespoke charging strategies to meet operational requirements 
• Charging behaviours — how, when and where drivers will charge their vehicles 
• Ongoing power and maintenance costs 
• Which EV models best suit your business needs 

2. Choose the right electric vehicle for your fleet

EVs represent a rapidly expanding market and are a platform to showcase new technology. With a variety of models available, businesses have greater flexibility to test and swap vehicles, making it easier to find the right fit. 

3. Determine the best charging solution

There are several charging solutions available for EVs – including standard wall socket, AC single phase and 3 phase smart chargers and dedicated DC fast EV charging stations, available for both public and private charging. The right solution would be dependent on the operational requirements of the vehicle and business needs. 

4. Bring stakeholders on the journey

Adapting to EVs is a journey for all involved and requires a strategic approach. Hosting educational sessions and implementing processes and systems for all stakeholders will help them successfully transition. 

5. Consider a fleet management program

Origin 360 EV Fleet offers end-to-end support to electrify your fleet from developing a strategic plan, to identifying the right EVs and charging infrastructure, to setting up the first trial. Businesses looking to experience a range of EVs can register for a future Drive Day or webinar, or ask us about the Origin 360 EV Flex Plan – our all-inclusive monthly EV subscription plan for businesses.  

Origin 360 EV is dedicated to helping Australians make the switch to EVs. We offer a range of products and services, from EV ready buildings, home charging solutions to business leasing, subscriptions and car sharing.  

Want to learn more?

Download our guide ‘A roadmap to electrifying your fleet‘ today.

The post How to electrify your fleet appeared first on The Origin Blog.

Let’s start with the similarities

Both subscription and novated lease require your employer to accept salary packaging. Both options are also salary sacrifice arrangements that reduce your taxable income, meaning you may pay less tax on your income. With either of these programs, you could save thousands compared to taking a loan or buying an EV outright. 

What is an EV subscription?

Subscriptions are a relatively new way to salary sacrifice. In fact, Origin was first to market with salary packaged subscription in Australia in early 2023. Following trials with our own people, we found that flexibility is highly valued and ideal for those who are curious about EVs and want to test them without making a long-term commitment.  

The Origin 360 EV Subscription model is designed with flexibility in mind. With no lock-in contracts and only 30 days’ notice to cancel or swap EV models, you’ll have scope to test other EVs to decide what’s best for you. For example, you may start out with a Mini Electric subscription and decide that a Tesla Model 3 subscription suits your needs better. 

What is a novated lease?

A novated lease is a three-way agreement between an employer, an employee, and a novated lease provider. Employees can finance a car as part of their pre-tax salary, also known as salary packaging or salary reduction. 

Which is better, a novated lease or subscription?

Novated lease and subscription are both cost-effective ways to get behind the wheel of an EV. Perks include possible tax savings and offsetting the car’s running costs, as well as having the option to return, replace or buy the vehicle after a set time. 

Deciding between a novated lease and a subscription depends on your individual circumstances and requirements. Let’s explore the pros and cons of both. 

Benefits of a novated lease

The advantage of a novated lease is you can choose to novate your current vehicle, used car, petrol, diesel, or EV car, or select the latest model fresh from the dealer showroom. Most novated lease companies^* allow you to add accessories (such as a bull bar). This is ideal if you have a particular vehicle in mind such as a traditional fuel or 4WD vehicle.  

Considerations

Like a traditional loan, obtaining a novated lease requires a credit assessment and, in certain cases, a deposit. These leases typically have fixed-term contracts spanning several years.  

This may be manageable if you plan to stay in the same job but if your employment circumstances change, and you’re unable to transfer the lease to a new employer, you might have to cancel it. Cancelling may incur exit fees, and you’ll be required to settle the residual value of the vehicle calculated as a percentage of the car’s total value. It’s important to check the details in the contract before signing. 

Benefits of subscription

On the other hand, Origin 360 EV Subscription bears all financial risk, without lock-in commitments or exit fees. Allowing you the freedom to trial an electric car on a month-to-month basis, eliminating upfront financial commitments – an excellent way to try out an EV without getting locked in. 

Our subscription package also allows subscribers to swap or upgrade to the latest EV model with 30 days’ notice^**. On the flip side, if you’re enjoying your EV, keep it and every 12 months, you’ll receive a 15% discount^# with the option to buy the vehicle after the third year_^{^}.  

As we’re also energy experts, we can help you get the most out of your EV through our connected home offerings like solar panels and battery storage systems. 

Considerations

If you have a petrol or diesel car in mind or want to add accessories such as a tow or bull bar to your car, then an EV subscription isn’t right for you. For most though, the reality is many EVs come with everything you’ll need for your daily commute and weekend adventures. 

How do EV subscriptions and novated leases differ?

Of course, it’s important to seek independent legal, financial and tax advice when making any financial decisions in respect of the appropriateness of salary packaging for your circumstances.

At Origin we’re dedicated to helping Australians make the switch to electric vehicles, from home charging solutions to business leasing, subscriptions, car sharing and much more. Find out how to get an Origin 360 EV subscription in your businesses.  

The post What’s the difference between a novated lease and a subscription?  appeared first on The Origin Blog.

Why now is the time to electrify your fleet

Governments at both state and federal level are currently incentivising the uptake of EVs with targeted rebates and subsidies – meaning it’s a great time to look at making the switch to electric. Incentives like the recent Fringe Benefits Tax exemption for electric vehicles (Electric Car Discount) alongside other relevant incentives are helping fuel demand, as the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for electric vehicles can be equal, if not lower, than a comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle. 

David Helmy, Head of Sales eMobility at Origin,  says, “Given the rate of growth, taking the first steps now is important to understand key considerations such as driver engagement and charging requirements. Those insights mean you will be equipped to transition your wider fleet as new models continue to launch across segments.” 

Origin 360 EV’s expertise across EV fleet management, charging, driver engagement and transition management can help to make switching to EVs simple and seamless for businesses. Helping businesses access these incentives and optimise cost efficiencies throughout their transition. 

There are a range of EV models available

There’s a growing range of EVs on the market that are featuring in business fleets. With manufacturers like Hyundai, KIA, Nissan, Renault, MG, Polestar, Tesla and BYD just a few of the options available — EVs are no longer limited to luxury class vehicles.  So now, you’re sure to find the right EV to suit your business needs.

“We’ve seen monumental improvements in EVs in recent years: from model availability to battery range and charging systems. This development means EVs are an area of focus for many fleets with a variety of options available to meet business needs.”  

– David Helmy, Head of Sales eMobility, Origin.

EVs can help you save on running costs

A key consideration for businesses, especially when changing vehicles, is how the switch to electric vehicles helps their bottom line.  

“High-utilisation fleets are already seeing competitive economics when switching to electric vehicles due to the lower running costs of EVs” says David. “With an average cost of $0.04/km in electricity, compared to $0.14/km in fuel costs, businesses can save up to 70% on fleet running costs.”  

EVs are also disrupting the legacy automotive model more broadly through their lower service requirements. EVs have far fewer moving parts than ICE vehicles, and less consumables requiring regular replacement. Transport for NSW estimate maintenance savings of up to 40% for EVs compared to legacy combustion engines.

Optimise savings with smart charging

‘Smart chargers’ are EV chargers with internet connectivity, enabling a range of connected features via software that are valuable for businesses.  

“We can drive the running costs of EVs even lower with smart chargers by scheduling charging to occur when energy costs are lower.”  says David.   

“We recognise the ideal charging strategy will differ from business to business, and that’s why we offer tailored solutions. We look at each site – whether at business premises or employee homes – to identify the most effective installation for that business and its fleet.   

Origin 360 EV is dedicated to helping Australians make the switch to electric vehicles. We offer a range of products and services, from home charging solutions to business leasing, subscriptions and car sharing. 

This article is part of the Origin Business EVs blog series. Origin Business EVs is a resource and content series providing expertise and practical advice to Australian businesses considering electric vehicles.  

The post Why you should electrify your business fleet appeared first on The Origin Blog.

How do EVs charge?

When researching EV chargers, you may come across terms such as alternating current (AC), direct current (DC) and smart charging — but what exactly do these terms mean?  

AC charging

AC chargers are typically wall socket adapters and wall charging stations. AC chargers offer convenience and a budget friendly solution suitable for at home charging. AC fast chargers are also available such as the ​​Delta AC Max, a more powerful version of the standard wall adapter, these offer faster speeds to fully charge overnight. 

DC charging

DC charging is used for rapid charging most commonly associated with public charging stations. DC chargers operate at a much faster rate due to containing a higher current threshold. Additionally, electric car batteries operate on the same current as DC. This means EVs can take in a DC charge directly without having to first convert it from an AC charge. This is why we find DC chargers at public charging stations as they allow drivers to top up in 10 minutes.  

Smart charging

Smart charging is an optimised way to charge an electric car. Using data backed intelligence and remote control, smart chargers allow electric car owners to remotely manage when and how long they charge their car to take advantage of cheaper charging costs by shifting charging loads to off peak periods. Origin customers can access benefits such as smart charging via Origin’s Smart Scheduling app. 

Wireless charging

One of the newest, and possibly most exciting evolutions in electric car charging is the introduction of wireless charging. Using electromagnetic waves, charging pads are able to transfer currents from the pad to an electric car without the need for cords and connectors. While this charging development is still in its infancy, it provides an exciting glimpse into what’s next for electric car charging, providing drivers with convenience and efficiency. 

Where can I find public EV chargers

For those yet to use personal chargers or that prefer to stick with public chargers, handy resources such as ​​​PlugShare provide detailed maps and information on the location and availability of EV charging stations in your local area. In addition to sites like PlugShare, monitoring your local council’s website for updates on charging stations will help you keep up to date with the latest infrastructure in your local area. 

In exciting news, Australians might soon expect to have an EV charger every 150km on major roads as suggested by the Australian Government’s National EV Strategy.

Range capacity

While range capacity among electric cars varies from model to model, the average daily range remains comfortably above the 30-40km that many motorists typically travel per day.​​ In fact, when fully charged, an average electric car can travel about 450 km. From a charging perspective, it’s simply a matter of understanding what charger will suit your needs. 

Which EV charger is right for me?

A good way to determine this is to consider your driving profile and lifestyle needs. Perhaps ask yourself, how many kilometres do I drive per day and per week? How often and how far is my work commute? Do I require specific charging capabilities for weekend trips?  

If you’re the kind of driver who is travelling a short distance around town during the week, then a wall socket adapter could be the right option. If you’re a heavy road user and need to charge from zero to 100 overnight, then a dedicated AC charge point may be a better option. 

Australia’s electric car charging journey is an exciting next step for our green transition. With a variety of charging options available to choose from, owning an electric car has never been more promising. 

Origin 360 EV is dedicated to helping Australians make the switch to electric vehicles. We offer a range of products and services, from home charging solutions to business leasing, subscriptions and car sharing. 

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Origin 360 EV is pleased to be a first-round recipient of a new NSW Government fleet incentive designed to help organisations electrify their fleets for less, and fast track the transport sector to net zero emissions by 2050. 

The incentive will allow Origin 360 EV to assist customers in transitioning their fleet vehicles to electric by offering 130 subsidised EVs. 

Despite the very clear operating cost advantage that electric vehicles present – the cost of petrol at around $2.20 per litre compares to an equivalent 50 cents a litre by electrical charge – one of the clear barriers to entry for fleet operators lies in the upfront purchase cost of EVs. Most of the EV models currently available in Australia sell for north of $60,000.  

“We’re very pleased to have been awarded this NSW Government incentive which will enable us to help more organisations meet their EV fleet goals, and sooner,” says Chau Le, Origin’s Head of E-mobility. “With this funding boost, we will be able to subsidise the cost of EVs for our business customers and continue to reduce and remove the barriers they face with fleet conversion.”  

The NSW Government is investing $105 million in the fleet incentive to help private business, local councils, and not-for-profits bridge the cost to electrify their fleets, an initiative it forecasts will see an additional 979 battery electric vehicles on the roads. And because fleet vehicles are a large source of supply for the second-hand car market, this boost is expected to have a positive trickle down to the used car market, making more EVs affordable for more consumers.  

 A division of Origin Energy, Origin 360 EV was established to make switching to electric vehicles easier for Australian consumers and businesses, helping to lower both their carbon footprint and operating costs. Last year it launched an EV fleet management service, the first of its kind in Australia, to assist organisations through the fleet electrification journey. 

In April, the team kicked off the first of a series of unique EV Drive Days for fleets at Sydney Olympic Park, supported by NSW Government. These events are designed to provide organisations with the opportunity to test drive a range of EVs and speak to industry experts about their business needs and considerations when looking to electrify. 

At the first of these Drive Days, a selection of 18 vehicles from seven manufacturers (including an electric truck) were available to test drive and information sessions on EV charging, fleet vehicle trial and EV car share were held. Described as a “masterclass in EVs” by one participant, the Drive Days showcase a range of vehicles available and provide a first touch opportunity for fleet managers and those tasked with reducing business emissions. 

Ms Le adds, “We’ve designed these events as a one-stop-shop for fleet and sustainability managers to consider the financial and environmental benefits they might achieve with conversion.” 

Find out more about the upcoming Origin 360 EV Drive Days in September and November.

The NSW EV fleet incentive is proudly funded by the NSW Government. 

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