Drive Electric has been busy behind the scenes, working to accelerate the decarbonisation of transport in Aotearoa, and we have some exciting updates to share with you. From policy submissions and new research, to member milestones and new board appointments. Here’s what’s been happening:
RECENT EVENTS
2025 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
Our AGM took place on 10 September 2025. The quality of the discussion, the insightful feedback, and the ongoing commitment from the Drive Electric ecosystem are what power our success. We are energised by what lies ahead and look forward to working with you over the coming year to bring our ambitious plans to life.
At the meeting, two new officers—Anthony MacLean (Boost Auto) and Fabian Lloyd (Fonterra)—were appointed, and five incumbent officers were reappointed to the board for a two-year term. Outgoing board member Sam Steel (EO Charging) and long-serving former events manager Hannah Henderson were awarded Lifetime Membership of Drive Electric. We are grateful for their valuable contributions. Sam’s knowledge, commitment and expertise have left a lasting impact, while Hannah’s passion, dedication and generosity have been integral to advancing Drive Electric’s mission and supporting the growth of Aotearoa’s electric transport sector for more than a decade.
DRIVING THE FUTURE WITH CUSTOM FLEET
Thank you to Custom Fleet for recently hosting and supporting us to deliver Driving the Future: Cleaner, Smarter, Greener. The international key note speakers, Seth Hochhauser and Leonard Tham, shared valuable insights on sucessful international EV fleet implementation and the future benefits of vehicle to grid (V2G) technology. Catch the full replay here to hear expert perspectives first-hand.
MEETING WITH THE MINISTER
Kirsten Corson, Eric Pellicer, and Tim Calder from the Drive Electric Board recently met with Minister Chris Bishop at Parliament.
As a member of a two-EV household, Minister Bishop brought a practical understanding of the EV transition and showed a strong willingness to listen to suggested policy changes. Both parties agreed that greater communication is needed to ensure impending decisions, policies, and press releases are shared ahead of being released.
Discussions then focused on Charge Point Operator (CPO) challenges with Electricity Distribution Businesses (EDBs). Drive Electric highlighted the urgent need for consistency in pricing, timing, and processes across all EDBs, with a focus on best-in-class standards rather than the lowest common denominator. Current regional variations prevent robust business case development and hamper infrastructure growth. Minister Bishop endorsed the creation of a national regulatory framework to elevate all participants to best-in-class standards, citing Orion and Powerco as exemplars.
The Minister also demonstrated strong support for heavy fleet electrification and welcomed Drive Electric’s expertise on road user charges (RUCs), acknowledging Aotearoa’s pioneering global position. He expressed interest in our policy workshop initiatives and the proposed heavy fleet sub-committee.
The collaborative tone of the meeting and Minister Bishop’s genuine engagement with Drive Electric’s broad membership signal positive momentum for continued sector growth and policy development.
SUBMISSION UPDATE
Streamlining New Connections
The Electricity Authority (EA) has released the network connections project decision paper that support connections to electricity networks. The changes are the first steps in the Authority’s work to make it easier and more efficient for businesses, developers and other consumers to get access to the electricity network so communities and the economy can benefit.
Technical consultation on the code is open now, until early October.
Smart EV Charging
In July the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) opened consultation on a range of options to encourage the uptake of smart EV chargers.
Drive Electric submitted in support of Option 4A (smart functionality with labelling), as it best balances our goals of accelerating EV uptake while ensuring safe, efficient charging infrastructure and importantly enabling consumers up to benefit from a new dynamic energy system.
Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT)
Inland Revenue has launched a public consultation on proposals to review the FBT regime. The issues paper focuses on simplifying the rules and reducing compliance costs, with particular attention on how FBT applies to employer-provided motor vehicles.
We would like to see a greater difference in FBT rates between internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEs) and electric vehicles (EVs). Read our full submission here.
Resource Management Act (RMA) Ammendments
In May, the Government proposed new national rules to make EV charger installation a permitted activity, helping to deliver 10,000 public charging points by 2030. Drive Electric welcomed the proposals and encouraged submissions from EV user and as part of this process, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) held an excellent session with our Charge Point Operator (CPO) Subgroup in July.
Our consultation response supports the changes but also urges Ministers to consider feedback from the sector about maintenance, typical site activities, and essential infrastructure. More information and our submission can be found here.
POLICY NEWS
New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme
The Government has announced the number of units that will be available and price control limits for the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme auctions for the next five years as part of annual updates to the NZ ETS. Find out what they are here.
All-of Government (AoG) Vehicle Panel Updated
We are watching the impact of the Government’s investment boost on vehicle sales. Early signs suggest it could help the industry begin its path to recovery – there are 124,425 light EVs registered in Aotearoa.
MEMBER NEWS
We are pleased to welcome a new Corporate member to Drive Electric. PDL by Schneider Electric provides smart, scalable EV charging infrastructure and software solutions. Its portfolio includes Schneider Charge and Charge Pro platforms for residential applications, and EVlink Pro AC and DC chargers—designed for reliability, safety, and future-ready performance across commercial, and fleet applications.
Just released: Episode #12 In the Driver’s Seat
Kirsten Corson joins Dennis Kelly to discuss the future of sustainable transport in Aotearoa. From the growth of EV adoption to the importance of strong policy settings and a reliable public charging network, Kirsten outlines why the transition to a cleaner, smarter transport system is already underway.
Listen to the full episode from Fleet Partners here.
There’s a new benchmark in EV performance!
The Polestar 3 has set a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance travelled by an electric SUV on a single charge — 935.44 km in one journey, beating its official WLTP range.
An unmodified Polestar 3 Long Range Single Motor achieved the feat over 22 hours and 57 minutes on public roads — electric SUVs are ready to go the distance!
Congratulations Meridian Energy
Meridian’s first fast-charging hub is now live at Auckland Airport and it’s setting a new benchmark for EV charging in Aotearoa. This isn’t just another charger on the map. It’s a purpose-built hub, designed with real EV driver needs in mind — Find out what makes this hub so special.
Good Things come in threes
We are amped to showcase three exciting collaborations between our members, bringing together expertise from across the EV ecosystem to drive innovation and impact.
IKEA and Jump Charging
Opening this December IKEA’s first store in Aotearoa at Sylvia Park will be complete with wider online shopping across the country, and EV charging infrastructure provided by Jump Charging.
This is a fantastic example of how our members are leading the charge with Jump Charging specialising in commercial EV charging to support businesses with fit-for-purpose infrastructure. When sustainable retailers like IKEA team up with innovative charging providers like Jump Charging, EV drivers get the reliable infrastructure they need while shopping for more sustainable home solutions.
The new IKEA store is a huge step forward for sustainability, with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and a second-hand furniture programme. These initiatives, combined with accessible EV charging, are exactly what we need to make sustainable living and driving easier for everyone. We’re energised by what’s coming next!
Genesis Energy and Cogo
Genesis has launched the Go Electric Calculator – the first time a kiwi energy provider has rolled out Cogo’s electrification solution – that helps households discover how switching to electric can:
- Save up to $3,000 per year in energy costs
- Reduce their carbon footprint
- Future-proof their lifestyle with personalised recommendations
This partnership perfectly demonstrates how our members are driving change.
Genesis brings their expertise as the country’s largest electricity retailer with a commitment to building new renewable generation, while Cogo contributes their global fintech innovation in carbon management.
Together, they’re making electrification decisions “simpler, faster and more accessible,” helping families take action today to prepare for tomorrow. Check out the nifty Go Electric Calculator now.
bp charge and Contact Energy
Thanks to an innovative partnership Contact Energy’s residential customers are now eligible for:
- Up to 70% off bp charging during peak hours (7–9am & 4–6pm)
- A complimentary monthly bp charge subscription, unlocking 10% discounts anytime
- Access to 200+ fast bp charge points across Aotearoa
With EECA research showing a 55% rise in public charging demand, bp charge is tackling the barriers that matter most: convenience, cost, and accessibility.
Antoine Denis, General Manager of bp charge, says this is the first subscription offer of its kind: “We want to keep Kiwi drivers moving by supporting those who have already made the switch to electric, while making EVs a more attractive choice for tomorrow.” Find out more here.
Together, we’re building a more sustainable, smarter transport system for Aotearoa. Let’s keep the momentum going – subscribe to our newsletter below.
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