Electric vehicle ownership has skyrocketed at a record rate in Lake Macquarie since hostilities in Iran sent fuel prices through the roof earlier this year, latest data shows.
As Lake Mac prepares to host its second EV Open Day, helping prospective buyers make informed decisions and showcasing the range of EVs on offer, Transport for NSW data shows registration of fully electric vehicles jumped more than 23 per cent from the start of March to the end of May.
There are now more than 2400 EVs registered in Lake Macquarie – up from 1442 this time last year and just 1056 in June 2024.
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Community Partnerships, Matt Holloway said the time was right to host another EV Open Day, following a successful inaugural event in 2023.
"Three years ago, many people were just starting to put their toe in the water when it came to EVs – learning about their capabilities and costs, and comparing them to internal combustion alternatives," he said.
"We've come a long way since then and this weekend's EV Open Day will reflect that. In just three years, EVs have made giant leaps in terms of technology, range and features, all of which will be showcased at Saturday's event."
The Open Day will be held at the Hunter Sports Centre kaiyu nungkiliko car park, Glendale, home to one of the region's largest banks of EV charging infrastructure.
It will feature display EVs from at least 15 manufacturers, including Toyota, Kia, BYD, Audi, MG, Volvo, Lexus, Porsche, Geely, Mustang, Leapmotor LDV, Jaecoo and Subaru.
"There will be no sales pitches. The focus is on providing clear, reliable information and genuine perspectives to support confident decision-making," Mr Holloway said.
The open day will also provide information about home and public charging options, energy management technology, home batteries and other EV-related innovations.
"With a greater diversity of EVs entering the market, improvements to maximum ranges and prices falling, more consumers are curious about going electric," Mr Holloway said.
"We will have plenty of experts on hand to answer questions and provide an insight into the real-life experience of owning and driving an EV.
Stallholders include NRMA, CleanAs, NSW Department of Climate Change, Environment, Energy and Water, IvyGo, All Field Electrical and the Australian Electric Vehicle Association.
"We'll also have solar-powered car racing for kids, which was a hit at last year's Living Smart Festival, and free coffee and gelato until supplies run out," Mr Holloway said.
The day will run from 9am-2pm and is free for all visitors.
Go to lakemac.com.au
