Australian supermarket giant Coles has announced a strategic partnership with Evie Networks to roll out up to 30 new electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers across its national store network over the next two years. The initiative, revealed on July 27, 2026, aims to significantly enhance convenience for electric vehicle owners, allowing them to top up their batteries while undertaking their regular grocery shopping.
The initial phase of the rollout will see new fast-charging sites become operational throughout 2026 in key locations across Victoria and Queensland. Specific sites include Orana Village in Clyde and Beveridge in Victoria, alongside Annerley and Milton Village in Milton, Queensland. The first of these new locations, a four-vehicle charging station at Coles Middle Camberwell in Melbourne, is already operational.
Each of the new installations will feature advanced DC fast chargers capable of supplying up to 200kW of power, shared across multiple bays. These chargers are equipped with CCS2 connectors, compatible with the majority of modern EVs currently available in Australia. Older standards, such as CHAdeMO, will not be supported without an adapter.
Driving Convenience for EV Owners
The decision by Coles to invest in expanding EV charging infrastructure stems from compelling market research. A survey conducted by Evie Networks indicated that 83 per cent of electric vehicle owners are inclined to visit food or retail outlets when utilising public charging services away from home. This insight underscores a growing demand for integrated charging solutions that align with daily routines, moving beyond dedicated charging hubs to more convenient, destination-based options.
Jane Mansfield, Coles Head of Energy, stated, “We know EV drivers are looking for convenient charging options at destinations they already visit, with charge times that align with the time they spend there.” She added that the partnership with Evie Networks is designed to “help build a more accessible charging network and give customers another reason to choose Coles when planning where to shop.”
“We know EV drivers are looking for convenient charging options at destinations they already visit, with charge times that align with the time they spend there.” – Jane Mansfield, Coles Head of Energy
Chris Mills, CEO of Evie Networks, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the partnership is a significant step in expanding access to fast charging at selected Coles supermarkets across Australia, thereby supporting more drivers in their transition to EVs. Evie Networks, already a prominent player in Australia’s fast-charging landscape, currently operates DC chargers at some Coles locations. This new initiative will significantly expand their presence and offer higher power outputs.
The Broader Australian EV Charging Landscape
This commercial rollout by Coles and Evie Networks complements broader efforts by state and federal governments to build out Australia’s EV charging capabilities. While public charging costs in Australia can vary, with typical rates from 50c/kWh, the expansion of reliable, high-speed options at convenient locations is crucial for reducing range anxiety and accelerating EV adoption. For more detailed information on public charging costs and reliability, refer to our guide: Public EV Charging in Australia 2026: Costs from 50c/kWh, Reliability & Avoiding Headaches.
Currently, Australia’s public charging network is a mix of government-funded initiatives and private investments. For instance, Queensland recently completed Phase 3 of its Electric Vehicle Super Highway (QESH) on July 24, 2026, establishing a network of 54 fast-charging locations across the state. While this enhances regional connectivity, the Coles-Evie partnership focuses on urban and suburban convenience, addressing a different but equally vital aspect of the charging ecosystem.
Impact on EV Uptake and Future Outlook
The introduction of more accessible and faster charging options at major retail destinations is expected to play a key role in normalising EV ownership for many Australians. The ability to charge an EV during a routine grocery run eliminates the need for dedicated charging stops, integrating EV charging seamlessly into daily life. This increased convenience could be a significant factor for prospective EV buyers, particularly those in urban and peri-urban areas where access to dedicated home charging might be limited, or for those without access to efficient home charging solutions like those discussed in our guide: Best Home EV Chargers in Australia 2026: Costs from $1,400 & Smart Features Explained.
The two-year rollout plan, with sites progressively coming online through to 2028, indicates a sustained commitment from both Coles and Evie Networks to support Australia’s transition to electric mobility. As EV sales continue to climb in Australia, commercial partnerships like this are essential for developing the robust and user-friendly charging infrastructure required to meet growing demand.
This initiative by Coles and Evie Networks represents a pragmatic step towards a more comprehensive and integrated EV charging network, directly addressing driver needs for convenience and accessibility. It highlights the increasing role of the private sector in accelerating Australia’s electric vehicle transition.