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:

1. What are the top 3 barriers to EV growth in Australia over the next 1–2 years?
2. What are the top 3 factors that could accelerate EV adoption in the same timeframe?

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.

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:
🔹 EV Sales surge in NZ and OZ
🔹 Melbourne EV Show

In this EV Quest podcast interview, Adrian Maidment talks with Mark Lampard at the Melbourne EV Show.
Mark shares insights on the current state and future of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, highlighting his recent experiences in China and Europe. Mark also shares his knowledge on the evolving technology and infrastructure needed to support the transition to electric vehicles, as well as exciting developments on the horizon for his company, go EV.

👉 Find out more: https://go-ev.com.au/

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.
🔗 futuredriveauto.au

(3:43) EV Towing Australia

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.
🔗 To find out more, visit: www.evts.com.au

(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.
🔗 Learn more at: zeekrlife.com/en-au

(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.
🔗 Discover more at: farizonauto.au

(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.
🔗 More information can be found at: paywise.com.au

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/

(12.34) Find out key facts about owning and EV. Adrian talks with Paul from the Australian Electric Vehicle Association. This chat explores the world of electric vehicles (EVs), addressing common misconceptions, the benefits of owning an EV, and the environmental impact of transitioning to electric mobility.. Find out more - https://www.aeva.asn.au/

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.

🔗 The event is organised by 'Future Drive Australia'.

Find out more about the Melbourne EV Show:
https://www.futuredriveauto.au/melb/ev25

Also in this episode:
✅ Deals of the Week
🌱 A look at the all-new Nissan Leaf

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.

Channel 7 link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lf8g4p7QR_o
Melbourne International EV AutoShow - https://www.futuredriveauto.au/melb/ev25

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
✅ Interior space and tech
✅ Driving feel & regen paddles
✅ Range
✅ Pricing
✅ Final thoughts on whether it lives up to the hype

Thanks to Ebbett Kia Rotorua for providing the vehicle.
https://www.ebbett.co.nz/dealership/ebbett-rotorua