– By Caroline Falls –
JAX Tyres has started rolling out a network of electric vehicle charging stations that customers and passers by can use to charge their vehicles for free. That’s what we call a win-win!
The 86-store national JAX network launched its EV charger at its new Woolloongabba, South Brisbane store this month, in partnership with EVolution, an electric vehicle accessory and installation group, to future proof its business.
“Our strategy is to ensure that our JAX stores evolve with the automotive changes and provide a service and repair network for our customers now and into the future,” Steve Grossrieder, CEO of JAX told Fleet Auto News. “Our EV charging network is a customer driven imperative.”
And so far, customers are happy. “We have seen a positive interest from day one of installation,” said Grossrieder.
As far as we know, JAX is right when it claims to be the first Australian mechanical repair service provider to offer free EV charging. JAX specialises in tyres, brakes, suspension and wheels.
Grossrieder explained the JAX strategy is to fit public EV chargers in all new stores and develop a program to have them installed in existing stores as they are refurbished over the next three years. “We will be targeting possible high demand areas and develop a fast track rollout plan in conjunction with our franchisees over the next 12 months.”
The types of chargers being fitted include Charge-Amps AURA Dual Port AC 22kw EVSEs and Tritium 50kw veefil RT charger.
The thing with the JAX rollout is that their stores are generally conveniently located, some in shopping centre carparks, so that an EV driver can plug in their vehicle while they dash into a nearby store for groceries.
JAX national network includes 44 stores in NSW, 23 in QLD, 13 in VIC, 4 in ACTand one in each of TAS and WA.
Grossrieder said JAX isn’t receiving any government support for its rollout, adding “but we will be looking for support to fast track our rollout plans”.
EVolution’s CEO, Russell Shepherd, said the partnership with JAX also included portable chargers to be used by JAX stores to top up EVs being serviced.
“Once complete this will be the largest retail based EV charging network in Australia. All charging will be free forever and accessible without the need for swipe card or mobile phone app,” said Shepherd.
