For most Australians, the cost-saving potential of these apps, particularly through membership discounts, can significantly reduce the total cost of EV ownership.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the specific pricing models and key discount schemes available on ChargeFox and Evie Networks for Australian drivers, particularly those linked to motoring clubs.
The public charging cost debate in Australia revolves around two key elements: the Retail Price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and the Motoring Club Discount.
1. ChargeFox: The Discount Champion
ChargeFox is largely owned by the major Australian motoring clubs—NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, and RACT—which is why it has the most extensive and impactful discount program for members.
A. Standard Retail Pricing (Indicative)
ChargeFox employs a tiered pricing structure based on the speed of the charger, with ultra-rapid charging being the most expensive.
| Charger Type | Indicative Retail Price (per kWh) | Use Case |
| 50kW Fast DC | $\approx \$0.45 – \$0.50$ | Good for topping up or sites with limited power. |
| Ultra-Rapid DC (Up to 350kW) | $\approx \$0.60$ | Essential for long-distance travel and maximum speed. |
| AC Chargers (e.g., 22kW) | Varies widely, sometimes free. | Slow charging at shopping centres or hotels. |
B. Motoring Club Member Discounts
This is the biggest financial benefit of using the ChargeFox network. If you are a member of one of the participating clubs, linking your membership number in the ChargeFox app is critical.
| Motoring Club | Discount Applied | Applicability | How to Claim |
| NRMA, RACV, RAA, RACT, AANT | 10% off the retail charging price. | Applicable at a large number of ChargeFox ultra-rapid sites and other select member-owned stations (e.g., some NRMA and RACV branded sites). | Link your member number in the ‘My benefits’ section of the ChargeFox app before you charge. |
| RAC (Western Australia) | 20% off at RAC Electric Highway® stations in WA. | Specific to RAC-owned charging sites in Western Australia. | Link your RAC membership in the app. Note: RAC members get a 10% discount at select interstate stations. |
Key Cost-Saving Note:
For a standard ultra-rapid charge session on a $\$0.60/kWh$ charger:
- Retail Price: $\$0.60/kWh$
- With 10% Discount: $\$0.54/kWh$ (A saving of $\$6$ for a 100kWh charge).
Furthermore, ChargeFox has Manufacturer Partnerships (e.g., with Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, etc.). Owners of new EVs from these brands often receive an entitlement for free or heavily discounted charging on the ChargeFox network for a set period. If you have both a motoring club discount and an OEM discount, ChargeFox typically ensures you receive the better of the two, often a minimum of 50% off the retail price.
2. Evie Networks: Focused Benefits and Regional Incentives
Evie Networks focuses on providing value through strategic, often location-specific, partnerships and a simplified charging experience.
A. Standard Retail Pricing (Indicative)
Evie’s prices are generally at the higher end of the scale, reflecting their focus on new, reliable ultra-rapid hardware.
| Charger Type | Indicative Retail Price (per kWh) | Use Case |
| 50kW Fast DC | $\approx \$0.50 – \$0.58$ | Found in urban and regional centres. |
| Ultra-Rapid DC (Up to 350kW) | $\approx \$0.65 – \$0.73$ | High-speed charging in key strategic locations. |
Evie’s retail pricing can be more expensive than ChargeFox’s ultra-rapid rates, making any available discount even more valuable.
B. Key Discount Scheme: RACQ Partnership
Evie’s most significant and well-publicised motoring club partnership is with RACQ (Royal Automobile Club of Queensland).
| Motoring Club | Discount Applied | Applicability | Key Condition |
| RACQ (Queensland) | 4 cents off ( $\$0.04/kWh$) the standard rate. | Applies at Evie DC fast charging stations in Queensland and selected Northern NSW sites. | Discount is limited to the first 1,000 kWh of charging per year. |
Key Cost-Saving Note:
For a standard ultra-rapid charge session on a $\$0.70/kWh$ charger (indicative):
- Retail Price: $\$0.70/kWh$
- With RACQ Discount: $\$0.66/kWh$
While the percentage discount is smaller than ChargeFox’s, it is crucial for Queensland drivers and demonstrates Evie’s focus on regional, state-based value.
C. Other Evie Vouchers and Offers
Evie frequently collaborates with car manufacturers, finance providers, and energy retailers to offer charging incentives:
- Manufacturer Vouchers: Purchase of certain new EVs (e.g., MG) can include an entitlement for complimentary public charging on the Evie network for a limited period, often capped at 1,000 kWh.
- Auto-Charge: Evie is known for its Auto-charge feature, which, while not a discount, adds significant value through convenience and speed by allowing you to simply plug in and start charging without opening the app or tapping a card.
🌟 Strategic Summary for the Cost-Conscious Driver
| Strategy | Who Benefits Most | Action Needed |
| Prioritise ChargeFox | Drivers who are members of NRMA, RACV, RAA, etc., or have an OEM partnership (e.g., new Audi/MB owners). | Always check the ChargeFox map first for the 10% (or more) discount icon. |
| Leverage RACQ/Evie | Drivers in Queensland and Northern NSW. | Use the Evie app and ensure your RACQ membership is correctly linked in the ‘Vouchers’ section. |
| Look for “The Stack” | All drivers, especially those on long trips. | When passing a ChargeFox site, take the 10% discount. If the next station is an Evie, use its reliable, fast hardware. Use PlugShare to confirm both are working! |
By actively managing your memberships and linking them within the respective apps, you can easily turn a premium ultra-rapid charging cost into a heavily subsidised one, making long-distance EV travel in Australia significantly more affordable.
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