Victorian healthcare provider Barwon Health is deploying six new battery electric cars for its staff at the University Hospital Geelong.
Another six electric cars are expected to be delivered to Barwon Health’s McKellar centre by the end of 2022.
Nurses, hospital crew, and volunteers will benefit from the new Hyundai Kona Electric units, which will be used for outpatient work and meetings within the Geelong community
The new Konas have a 480 km range that would enable staff to make long trips without the need to charge on the road. University Hospital Geelong will be equipped with dedicated charging stations for the new zero-emission vehicles (ZEV).
The new ZEVs will be powered via the Mount Gellibrand wind farm by the end of 2022.
The organisation seeks to reach zero fleet emissions by 2035.
Its switch to ZEVs aligns with the Andrews Labor government’s drive towards a statewide net zero emissions target by 2050.
“We are participating in the ZEV program to reduce our carbon emissions from transport and to demonstrate Barwon Health’s environmental intentions to the community,” said Frances Diver, chief executive of the organisation.
“The other benefits include familiarising and myth-busting environmental issues amongst staff and providing a supply of second-hand zero-emission vehicles to the market,” Diver added.
Barwon Health, Victoria’s largest regional healthcare provider with 21 sites, operates the hospital, which is a key healthcare provider across Geelong.
“Barwon Health is an important part of our community and they should be congratulated for taking a lead role in this important initiative. Zero-emission vehicles will make a big difference in creating a healthier future for Geelong,” Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said.
Victorian industry expert JET Charge was tapped by the state to supply and install the charging infrastructure that would help Victoria fast-track its fleet’s transition.
The company will deliver 7 kW charging stations manufactured in Victoria.
The state government has also invested $19 million in grants to expand the publicly accessible fast-charging network, with fast-charging stations slated to be installed at Lorne, Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, and Winchelsea.
