NRMA responds after Aussies ridicule outback charging station detail
While some have slammed the off-grid charger, others have come in to bat for electric vehicles.
The great debate between electric car lovers and other motorists has come to a head after a viral video showed an NRMA electric vehicle charger in Australia's outback that is allegedly "run" from a diesel powered generator.
Over two million people have watched the video, with thousands of people coming in to bat for the charger, saying it's just the back-up generator and still is more efficient than the petrol alternative, while thousands more have mocked the irony.
"Does it make a lot of sense to you, because it doesn't make a lot of sense to me," the Aussie filming the video said.
The NRMA has since responded, sharing the diesel generator is a back-up that "typically" switches on after "several overcast days".
Do you have a story about electric cars? Contact reporter Laura Koefoed at laura.koefoed@yahooinc.com
Reactions have been divided
Thousands of Aussies and people across the globe replied to a video circulating online in support of electric vehicles.
"Why do people still hate on electric cars. Electric motors are way better than [internal combustion engine vehicles] ICEV in every way," one person commented.
"Still more efficient than a general car engine," argued another.
Many others agreed with the video's poster, laughing at how ironic the situation was.
"Make it make sense," a person agreed.
"You dropped the facts brother," another said.
This sentiment was shared by Ray Hadley on his show on 2GB, who called the situation "ridiculous".
"That’s how absolutely ridiculous it’s got, that the NRMA, a highly responsible organisation, is putting two electric chargers in the middle of nowhere powered by a diesel generator," he said.
Residents bitterly divided over ‘privileged’ parking spots in Aussie suburbs
Aussie ute driver accused of 'low-life' parking act: 'Disgraceful'
NRMA say the off-grid electric vehicle charger is a prototype
Many don't know the charger is a prototype and the diesel generator is meant to be a back-up and, according to NRMA, the back-up generator only "automatically switches on when the solar panels aren’t producing enough power and battery levels are low, typically after several overcast days".
In an article on their website by Bridie Schmidt, NRMA continues to explain the "Australian-first technology" is meant to help solve remote EV charging issues and refers to a 2018 test by Tesla Owner's Club of Western Australia which says even with the back up diesel generator, it's more efficient.
"The test showed that less fuel is used to power EVs than would be used in a comparable internal combustion engine vehicle, proving that off-grid EV charging can still be more environmentally friendly than driving non-electric cars, even when diesel is the only option for power," they say.
Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
