SYDNEY, June 25 (Xinhua) -- An Australian-first pilot project will see free electric vehicle charging stations installed at six popular tourist sites in the northeast Australian state of Queensland.
The joint initiative by the Queensland government and Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) was announced on Monday, with Michael Healy, parliament member for Cairns, saying it will make electric vehicle "road-trips" a reality throughout the popular tourist region.
"The six chosen sites are Paronella Park, Herberton Historic Village, Coffee Works Mareeba, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Hartleys Crocodile Adventures and the Mossman Gorge centre," Healy said.
The free trial will run for a minimum of 12 months although Healy said it is expected that most, if not all, of the sites will continue to offer free charge once the trial ends.
"Electric vehicle ownership is gaining momentum, and residential and commercial buildings in Queensland, as well as public infrastructure will need to keep up with the technological advancement," Healy said.
The charging sites will deliver between 3.6kW and 7kW to recharge vehicles, equating to between 100km and 200km of range.
RACQ Head of Public Policy Rebecca Michael said the planned charging stations will link the remote northern region to major cities of Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Adelaide.
"Those travelling along Queensland's Electric Super Highway can now explore the beautiful far north region, with the confidence that they can charge up as they do so," Michael said.
