Explore every episode of the podcast EV QUEST
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Atto 1 vs Atto 2 – Which One Should You Buy? | 18 avr. 2026 | 00:13:44 | |
Thinking about buying an affordable electric car in New Zealand? In this video, I test drive and compare the BYD Atto 1 and Atto 2 to help you decide which one is right for you. From pricing and range to real-world driving feel, I break down the key differences between these two EVs — including which one I’d personally choose. If you're considering your first EV or upgrading to something more practical, this is a must-watch. 👉 Try the EV Finder Tool (Beta): EVFIT.NZ 👇 Already own an Atto 1 or Atto 2? | |||
| Solar, EV, Battery… What Should You Buy FIRST? (Most Get This Wrong) | 15 avr. 2026 | 00:31:15 | |
Thinking about going electric with solar, EVs, or home batteries? From sealing his home to running a fully electric, solar-powered lifestyle, Neerav shares what actually works, and what people often get wrong. If you’re considering: 🔌 Follow Neerav 📲 EV FIT - New Zealand's free EV matching tool | |||
| Used EVs Are Selling Out: What One NZ Dealer Is Seeing Right Now | 08 avr. 2026 | 00:18:23 | |
Fuel prices are rising, and so is interest in electric vehicles. In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment talks with Hayden Johnson, General Manager of EV specialist dealership GVI, to unpack what’s really happening in New Zealand’s EV market. Are EVs actually selling out? Is this surge driven purely by petrol prices, or are we seeing a genuine tipping point in consumer behaviour? They cover:
If you’re thinking about switching to an EV or just trying to make sense of the hype, this episode gives you real, on-the-ground insight from someone in the the know. LInk: GVI - https://www.gvi.kiwi/ | |||
| EV Registrations Skyrocket in NZ | 05 avr. 2026 | 00:11:43 | |
In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop to break down the latest EV registration data from March. We explore:
Plus, Riz shares insights from recent test drives and previews upcoming events like the Melbourne Motor Show and Beijing Auto Show. Carloop: https://carloop.com.au/ | |||
| New EVs from Japan | 31 mars 2026 | 00:07:25 | |
EV Market: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/ev-boom-accelerates-with-second-week-of-record-sales/premium/KECLWAZJHRBEBOVY2ATN5DVB2I/ EVDB: https://evdb.nz/ | |||
| Chinese EV News: What's Heading to NZ & AU Next? | 15 mars 2026 | 00:09:33 | |
In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar (Carloop) dive into the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. Riz shares his news of the Chinese EV market, including BYD's new fast charging. Plus - new large Tesla. Carloop - https://carloop.com.au/ | |||
| Foxtron Bria EV Review | A new Mitsubishi EV from Taiwan? | 02 mars 2026 | 00:06:00 | |
I’m in Taiwan to take a closer look at the Foxtron Bria, a subcompact electric SUV crossover that could potentially make its way to New Zealand and Australia under a different badge. There’s strong speculation this vehicle could appear in our market as a Mitsubishi EV. If that happens, it could become a serious new competitor in the growing small-to-medium electric SUV segment. A big thanks to the team at Foxtron in Taichung, Taiwan for letting me film and drive the Bria. | |||
| EZgo Launch, MSI’s New Portable EV Charger | 20 janv. 2026 | 00:14:47 | |
In this episode of the EV Quest podcast, host Adrian Maidment sits down with Monica Chiu, from MSI, to talk about the EZgo Portable EV Charger launch into the Australian market. Find out more about EZgo: https://au.msi.com/Landing/ezgo The episode covers:
🔔 Enjoyed this episode? New episodes drop regularly, so hit follow to stay up to date. | |||
| EVs at the Tennis, Sales Data, What's coming soon? | EV Quest Podcast | 18 janv. 2026 | 00:09:47 | |
Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop, talking EVs. Data link: https://evdb.nz/sales | |||
| EV Quest’s 2025 EV of the Year Awards Podcast - Christmas Special | 21 déc. 2025 | 00:21:58 | |
The EV Quest Podcast Christmas Edition is here and we are wrapping up 2025 in style. In this end of year special, Adrian Maidment is joined by Riz Akhtar from Carloop for the awards ceremony We look back at the key trends that defined 2025 including an explosion of new models, falling prices, the rise of plug in hybrids. We then move into the main event, the highly prestigious EV Quest EV of the Year Awards. Categories include: ⭐️
A special thanks to everyone who has supported the channel in 2025. | |||
| MG IM6 Review | 14 déc. 2025 | 00:15:54 | |
Everyone likes a little luxury, and MG’s parent company SAIC is aiming high with the IM6, their new premium electric SUV for New Zealand. Thanks to Farmer MG for the loan of the IM6 - https://farmermg.co.nz/ 🔔 Subscribe to EV Quest for NZ-focused EV reviews, news, and honest insights. | |||
| The Smart Way to Go Solar: A Broker’s Insider Advice | 11 déc. 2025 | 00:20:42 | |
In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian sits down with a New Zealand solar broker Rowan Ellis from Equity Solar Brokers to unpack the process of going solar. We look at how brokers compare quotes, what homeowners should ask before committing, and potential mistakes people could make when purchasing solar and batteries. Whether you're considering solar for the first time or want to understand if it’s really worth the investment, this episode gives you a clear perspective from someone who is in the industry. Website: https://www.equitysolar.co.nz Calculator: https://www.equitysolar.co.nz/calculator #solar #renewableenergy #solarbroker | |||
| EV Sales, New Models & What’s Coming in 2026 | EV Quest Podcast | 07 déc. 2025 | 00:11:11 | |
Adrian Maidment Riz Akhtar (Carloop) unpack the latest EV developments across New Zealand and Australia. Riz shares insights from his recent trip to China, a major source of new right-hand-drive EVs bound for NZ and Australia. Adrian breaks down New Zealand’s November EV sales data, including the continued dominance of the Tesla Model Y. If you’re curious about where EVs are heading in 2026, how pricing is shifting, and what new models are worth watching, this episode is packed with insights for EV fans and everyday drivers alike. EVDB data: https://evdb.nz/ev-stats | |||
| Is Solar Worth It in NZ? Real Costs, Payback & EV Savings Andre Kavanagh | 05 déc. 2025 | 00:20:52 | |
In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian sits down with Andre Kavanaugh from Harrisons Solar to unpack what Kiwis need to know about home solar power. ⚡️
Contact Andre: https://www.harrisonssolar.co.nz/owner/solar-coromandel-bay-of-plenty #EVQuest #SolarNZ #NewZealandSolar | |||
| How NZ Can Slash Energy Bills – Mike Casey of Rewiring Aotearoa | 23 nov. 2025 | 00:22:27 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest podcast – I’m Adrian Maidment. This episode is all about electrifying everything with guest Mike Casey, CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, and a fully electric cherry orchardist from Central Otago. Website: https://www.rewiring.nz/ | |||
| Dongfeng launches in NZ - Interview with General Manager Arek Zywot | EV Quest podcast | 12 nov. 2025 | 00:10:59 | |
On Tuesday, 11 November, Dongfeng launched in New Zealand at an event in Auckland. In this interview, Adrian Maidment talks with Arek Zywot, the General Manager of Dongfeng New Zealand. They discuss the Dongfeng brand, the company’s plans for the New Zealand car market, and the new models announced. Now available to buy is the Dongfeng BOX model, priced from $29,990 + ORC. Dongfeng website: https://dongfeng.co.nz/ | |||
| Home EV Charging Options in NZ | Paul O’Connor from EV Power | 12 nov. 2025 | 00:13:04 | |
We talk affordability, the government’s impact on EV uptake, and how to when you buy from EV Power. $ PROMO CODE: "Freelunch" $ | |||
| BYD’s Atto 1 and Atto 2 Pricing Shake Up the NZ EV Market! | 09 nov. 2025 | 00:13:51 | |
Kia ora and welcome back to the EV Quest podcast. After a short recharge break, Adrian and Riz (Carloop) return with one of the biggest stories of the year: BYD’s jaw-dropping pricing announcement for the Atto 1 and Atto 2 in New Zealand, and what it could mean for Australian pricing. 🚖 Also: News from the Japan desk, EV Shows in Australia, Sales data from October, and its beginning to feel like Christmas. 🎙️ | |||
| A Kiwi tries the Waymo autonomous ride-hailing service in the USA | 17 oct. 2025 | 00:08:59 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest podcast, I’m Adrian Maidment. | |||
| MG IM5 Reviewed | Cheaper MG4 on the way | 28 sept. 2025 | 00:09:58 | |
This week on the EV Quest podcast with Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar (Carloop): MG IM5 driven by Riz *** Riz's special ticket offer for the Sydney International EV Motor Show *** | |||
| Zeekr 7X Drives Into NZ | BYD Atto 1, Tesla FSD Pricing & Top 5 Mid-Sized EVs | 21 sept. 2025 | 00:09:51 | |
In this episode of the EV Quest Podcast, Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar dive into the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. Riz shares his first-hand experience with the brand-new Zeekr 7X SUV. We also cover:
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| Driving a Tesla with Full Self-Driving (Supervised) | XPeng confirms NZ launch | Top 5 Japanese EVs according to ChatGPT | 14 sept. 2025 | 00:13:42 | |
Kia ora and welcome to EV Quest podcast. In this episode, Adrian and Riz dive into the latest EV developments across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and share EV Quest to help us grow. | |||
| Deepal EO7 & Nissan ARIYA reviewed | Falsely claimed Clean Car rebate | EV Quest Podcast | 11 sept. 2025 | 00:09:57 | |
A week day episode of EV Quest - with Adrian and Riz. | |||
| NZ EV Sales Slump, Aussie Market Up | BMW’s Neue Klasse | Musk’s $1T Pay Deal!!! | 08 sept. 2025 | 00:16:18 | |
In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AU) dive into the latest EV news from New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. We unpack NZ’s EV sales slump, while Australia surges ahead. There's pricing on the Model Y Performance from Berlin and Elon Musk’s jaw-dropping $1 trillion pay package. Plus, we look at BMW’s bold new “Neue Klasse” platform, and Riz’s hands-on impressions of the Audi SQ6 e-tron, Nissan Ariya, and a quirky Chinese multi-truck. | |||
| Tesla's Full Self-Driving is almost here, Tesla Model Y Performance, Atto 3 fix | EV Quest Podcast | 31 août 2025 | 00:08:18 | |
Adrian and Riz discuss the latest developments in electric vehicles, focusing on Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) (Almost). There's the release of the Model Y performance and BYD's Atto 3 charging compatibility. Also, Riz tests out the Audi Q4 e-tron. #podcast #evquest #evnews Mentioned: | |||
| Volvo and all the other Geely brands under one roof | The new fully EV Ute | Tesla’s Stalk Comeback | 24 août 2025 | 00:11:48 | |
In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AU) unpack a big week for the EV world, especially in New Zealand.
👉 Don’t forget to follow and like EV Quest for weekly EV news, reviews, and insights! | |||
| Zeekr 7X pre-orders impress | Ford goes affordable | RUC - coming soon! | 17 août 2025 | 00:13:35 | |
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| From Car Seats to EVs: Family Car Buying Made Simple | 13 août 2025 | 00:18:10 | |
Buying a family car is a big decision, and not just about price or style. In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment talks with automotive journalist and content creator Jade Credentino, founder of Baby in a Car and Drive in Oz. Whether you’re in Australia, New Zealand, or anywhere else, this conversation will give you practical tips, insider knowledge, and the confidence to choose the perfect vehicle for your family. LINKS MENTIONED: | |||
| Zeekr 7X Launch, Tesla FSD in Auckland, Latest sales data - the Ups and Downs | 09 août 2025 | 00:14:57 | |
This week on EV Quest, Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne break down the latest EV news across New Zealand and Australia.
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| Checking out China’s EV Chargers, MG’s Luxury Leap, and NZ’s Electric Two-Wheelers | 02 août 2025 | 00:13:06 | |
In this episode of EV Quest, Adrian Maidment checks in with Riz Akhtar (Carloop) fresh from his recent trip to China. Riz shares insights from visiting charging giant Sinexcel and spotting next-gen EVs from Nio and Xpeng. Adrian covers the rise of New Zealand’s electric two-wheeler industry with updates from Velduro, FTN Motion, and the rescued UBCO brand. The duo also dive into MG’s new luxury line "IM," Xpeng’s big push into Australia, Tesla’s upcoming affordable Model Y, and the new Cupra Tavascan. | |||
| Smart #3 Review, BYD's Growth in Australia, European Solar, Warranties | EV Quest Podcast | 20 juil. 2025 | 00:15:02 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world. With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. 🎙️ This episode includes: 👉
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| EV Growth in Australia: Barriers, Breakthroughs & the Road Ahead | 12 juil. 2025 | 00:13:22 | |
In this episode of the EV Quest podcast, Adrian Maidment and Riz Akhtar (from Carloop in Melbourne) go for a big-picture discussion on the current state and future of electric vehicles in Australia. They dive into two key questions:
The discussion includes - charging infrastructure, fleet adoption and workplace charging, to new model availability, affordability, and government incentives. In other news: new MGS5 in NZ, the Hyundai IONIQ 6N, and Model Y offers in New Zealand and Australia. | |||
| EV Sales Surge in June | 06 juil. 2025 | 00:13:45 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world. With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. This episode includes: | |||
| What’s Next for Charging? Mark Lampard at the Melbourne EV Show | 03 juil. 2025 | 00:11:03 | |
In this EV Quest podcast interview, Adrian Maidment talks with Mark Lampard at the Melbourne EV Show. 👉 Find out more: https://go-ev.com.au/ | |||
| Zeekr, Farizon, EV Towing & Paywise Insights – Interviews from the Melbourne EV Show | 02 juil. 2025 | 00:21:43 | |
Here's my second podcast from the Melbourne EV Show. In this episode, I'm having a chat at the stands of: EV Towing Australia, Zeekr, Farizon & Paywise. A big thanks to everyone who talked to me (I'm Adrian Maidmdent 🎙️. First up for this EV Quest Podcast, I catch up with Riz Akhtar at the show to chat about what stood out. A big thanks to Future Drive AutoShows for organising the Melbourne EV Show.
Adrian then speaks with Nick from EV Towing Australia. They discuss the installation process for tow bars on electric vehicles, the importance of preserving factory warranties, and the towing capabilities of various EV models - with a particular focus on the EV5. Nick also explains how aerodynamics play a crucial role in towing efficiency. (9:45) Zeekr Next, Adrian chats with Elfleada from Zeekr, a brand that has recently launched in Australia. The conversation explores Zeekr’s current lineup, including the Zeekr 009 - an electric luxury MPV - and the Zeekr X, an urban crossover SUV. They discuss features such as seating configurations, in-car entertainment systems, and battery range. (13:51) Farizon In another interview, Jon from Farizon shares insights into the newly launched range of fully electric light trucks and vans. Adrian and Jon talk about how these vehicles are designed to support the growing demand for clean and efficient commercial transport options in Australia. (16:49)Paywise Finally, Sam from Paywise provides a helpful overview of how novated leasing works, with a focus on the advantages for electric vehicle owners. Paywise supports both public and private organisations across Australia, offering salary packaging solutions to private enterprises, not-for-profits, charities, and the health sector. | |||
| Inside the Melbourne EV Show: Solar Cars, Tesla Owners Club & EV Myths Busted | 01 juil. 2025 | 00:17:59 | |
There was a lot to see and do at the Melbourne EV Show, and plenty of people to talk to! Here are three interviews Adrian recorded at the event. A big thanks to Martin, Mark, and Paul for taking the time to chat. Find out more about Aurora (Solar Car Technology), the Tesla Owners Club of Australia, and the Australian Electric Vehicle Association. A big thanks to Future Drive AutoShows for organising the Melbourne EV Show. - https://www.futuredriveauto.au/ (00:10) Learn about solar car technology, particularly focusing on the Aurora vehicle and its participation in the World Solar Challenge. Adrian talks with Martin from Aurora. Martin highlights the evolution of solar panels, battery technology, and the importance of aerodynamics in solar car design. Marin shares insights into the challenges of driving solar cars, the skills required for development, and the significance of engaging in STEM education. Find out more - https://www.aurorasolarcar.com/ (07:33) Mark from the Tesla Owners Club of Australia discusses the benefits and activities of the Tesla Owners Club of Australia, including exclusive offers, social events, and common questions from potential Tesla owners. He also shares key tips for electric vehicle owners regarding charging practices and safety. Find out more - https://www.teslaowners.org.au/
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| Melbourne EV Show Preview | 22 juin 2025 | 00:10:32 | |
In this week’s EV Quest Podcast, we’re gearing up for the Melbourne EV Show, happening 27–29 June at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. The event will feature EV brands, test drive experiences, talks from industry experts, and hands-on exhibits. Riz from Carloop is a Brand Ambassador and MC for the event, and Adrian will also be attending. Vehicle brands on display include: Polestar, Zeekr, Kia, Mercedes, Mazda, VW, XPeng, Audi, Smart, Leapmotor – plus a host of other exhibitors.
Find out more about the Melbourne EV Show: Also in this episode: | |||
| New BYD models on the way | Fieldays wrap-up | Riz on TV | 14 juin 2025 | 00:16:03 | |
Included in this episode of the EV Quest Podcast- new models from BYD heading to Oz and NZ, highlights from the recent Fieldays event, Deals of the Week, Melbourne EV event and Riz on TV.
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| Kia EV3 Light Long Range Test Drive - World Car of the Year | 12 juin 2025 | 00:13:01 | |
Test driving the 2025 Kia EV3 Long Range Light, recently crowned World (I forgot to say 'World') Car of the Year by World (I forgot to say 'World' twice) Car of The Year. In this quick but detailed test drive, I cover: ✅ Exterior design Thanks to Ebbett Kia Rotorua for providing the vehicle. | |||
| Kia EV3 Test Drive | May Sales Data | Gumboots on for Fieldays | 08 juin 2025 | 00:08:22 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world. With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. This episode includes: Link: Kia Rotorua: https://www.ebbett.co.nz/brand/kia | |||
| BYD China Visit Recap | Honda’s New EV | Tesla Model 3 ANCAP Rating | 01 juin 2025 | 00:14:03 | |
Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AU) reunite for another high-voltage episode of the EV Quest podcast! Riz shares exclusive insights from his recent trip to China, diving deep into the scale and scope of BYD's electric ecosystem—from cars to buses, and SkyRail. Plus, they unpack major changes in BYD's distribution in Australia. Also in this episode:
Don’t miss the debut of their new segment: Deals of the Week on EVs! | |||
| BYD Sealion 7 Test Drive | EV Quest Podcast | 27 mai 2025 | 00:17:16 | |
If you’re considering a new Tesla Model Y, don’t decide just yet. In this EV Quest episode, I take the BYD Sealion 7 Premium for a test drive in Tauranga, New Zealand. In this review, I explore everything from the exterior styling and premium interior to its technology, and whether the Premium RWD model offers enough — or if you need to go all-in on the AWD Performance version. #byd #bydsealion7 #review Features include: ✅ Dynaudio 12-speaker sound system ✅ V2L, HUD, 360° camera, OTA updates, NFC key, and more. Not included in the video, but colours options are (with price): | |||
| E-Bikes, Gold Award & Big Ambitions: Velduro’s Kiwi Success Story - Interview with Dan Wallace | 25 mai 2025 | 00:23:06 | |
"We won a gold award out of 600 entries." Join Adrian Maidment on the EV Quest Podcast as he chats with Dan Wallace, co-founder of Velduro. Fresh off their gold award win at the 33rd China International Bicycle Fair held in Shanghai , Dan shares the story behind Velduro’s cutting-edge designs, the game-changing DJI Avanox motor system, and future plans for Velduro. Plus, Dan shares an "EV QUEST Exclusive" on the rules of speed. Find out more on Velduro: https://www.velduro.com/ | |||
| First Drive of Luxgen N7 in Taiwan | 20 mai 2025 | 00:04:43 | |
In this episode, I hit the roads of Taichung, Taiwan (with help from Kerry from Luxgen) for a test drive of the Luxgen N7, a feature-packed electric SUV. It's my first drive of a car on the right hand side of the road! The Luxgen N7 is by Foxtron—a joint venture between Luxgen’s parent company Yulon and Foxconn, the tech giant behind the iPhone. n7 Features Reviewed include: Luxgen n7 website: https://www.luxgen-motor.com.tw/n7 | |||
| Tesla FSD in Oz, Riz impressed by new EV, Global EV Sales | 18 mai 2025 | 00:11:34 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast - brining you EV news from from Aotearoa, Australia, and around the world. With your hosts - Adrian Maidment in Tauranga and Riz Akhtar from Carloop in Melbourne. This episode includes: Mentioned: | |||
| Shanghai Auto Show Recap, New Tesla Model Y, Sales Figures April, Luxgen N7 | EV Quest Podcast 🚗 | 10 mai 2025 | 00:17:26 | |
Adrian and Riz dive into EV news from China to Tauranga: Riz shares takeaways from the Shanghai Auto Show, Adrian drives the Luxgen N7 in Taiwan, thoughts on the new Tesla Model Y, and an electric truck fire in Tauranga The "Japan EV Desk" includes news on the updated Subaru Solterra. NZ/AU sales data, and more! | |||
| A quick review of the Melbourne Motor Show and Upcoming EV Related Events | 11 avr. 2025 | 00:04:23 | |
A quick review of the Melbourne Motor Show and upcoming EV Related Events. | |||
| Riz reports live from the Melbourne Motor Show, Latest Australian EV Sales Figures| EV Quest Podcast | 05 avr. 2025 | 00:09:33 | |
Kia ora and welcome to the EV Quest Podcast, your source for electric vehicle news from Australia, New Zealand, and around the globe. In this episode, recorded on April 5, 2025, host Adrian Maidment in Tauranga, New Zealand, talks with Riz Akhtar, reporting live from the Melbourne Motor Show at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Links: | |||
| Tips on buying an EV, NZ Sales for March | EV Quest Podcast 🚗 | 02 avr. 2025 | 00:10:02 | |
This episode: We are also on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EVQuest | |||
| Volvo's new premium 7-seat SUV. Cadillac Lyriq seen! Cybertruck not seen! | EV Quest Podcast 🚗 | 30 mars 2025 | 00:13:12 | |
In this episode of EV Quest’s News Shorts, Adrian Maidment (Tauranga, NZ) and Riz Akhtar (Melbourne, AUS) bring you the latest in EV news from down under and around the world. 🔌 Here’s what we cover:
Bite-sized EV news, fresh and fast. Hit play! | |||