The New South Wales government has embarked on a significant initiative to enhance electric vehicle (EV) travel across the state, equipping nine iconic road trips with strategically placed charging stations. Among these is the picturesque Kosciuszko Alpine Way, offering a 171km journey through the Snowy Mountains, which promises both adventure and unparalleled natural beauty.
PHOTO: A view towards Kosciuszko National Park, not far from Berridale.
The project aims to eliminate range anxiety for EV drivers, ensuring they can explore the best that NSW has to offer without concerns about recharging their vehicles. The NSW Government invested $199 million in the installation of publicly available EV charge ports, earning top marks in the 2024 State of EVs report for its commitment to expanding charging infrastructure.
The initiative not only supports the adoption of electric vehicles but also boosts sustainable tourism and the regional visitor economy, Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Penny Sharpe said.
“We are committed to making the state a leader in electric vehicle adoption and sustainable tourism. Driving electric is not only better for the environment, but it’s also the most budget-friendly way to hit the road. Lower running costs means EVs offer significant savings for drivers.”
The charging stations are set approximately every 100km, providing at least two fast-charging plugs in addition to a destination charging plug, offering seamless travel through these curated routes.
The Kosciuszko Alpine Way is particularly notable for Snowy Mountains residents and visitors, offering an enchanting drive from Canberra through the serene landscapes of the Snowy Mountains. The route is well-known for its breathtaking scenery, including the majestic Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, and a host of attractions such as ski fields, mountain biking, and hiking trails.
PHOTO: Mountain bikers take the chair lift to the top of Thredbo Valley track CREDIT: Tourism Snowy Mountains.
Ross Martin, a member of AltitudeEV, a group of EV owners in the Snowy Mountains, praised the initiative, saying, “I think this is a great initiative and should service travellers from NSW reasonably well. Type two chargers are also important for smaller mobility such as Motorcycles so this is pleasing to see.”
However, Mr Martin raised concerns about the current fast charging infrastructure in Cooma and Jindabyne, noting its inadequacy during peak times and the absence of charging in Khancoban, which he believes affects travellers from Victoria. He also emphasised the importance of destination charging for longer-stay tourists and the need for public access to these facilities in opening up EV travel.
PHOTO: Ross Martin’s BYD Shark 6 ute, charging at Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre Cooma.
The Kosciuszko Alpine Way and other routes are outlined on the Visit NSW website, offering detailed itineraries and showcasing the rich cultural and natural experiences available along the way. This development marks a significant step in making EV travel more accessible and enjoyable across regional New South Wales.
The nine EV-friendly road trips are on the Visit NSW website www.visitnsw.com/evroadtrips:
- Central Coast and Hunter Valley – a U-shaped 257km trip from Newcastle to Maitland
- Grand Pacific Drive – a 200km journey along the coastline from Sydney to Jervis Bay
- Greater Blue Mountains Drive – a 283km round trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains
- Southern Highlands to the South Coast – a 210km journey through the highlands and coast
- Kosciuszko Alpine Way – a 171km drive through the Snowy Mountains
- Southern Tablelands – a 100km trip taking in Goulburn and surrounds
- Classic Country – a 422km drive through the Southern and Riverina Murray tourism regions
- Legendary Pacific Coast – an 819km, multi-day journey along the Pacific Highway
- Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive – a 406km trip through Australia’s southeastern corner