NT EV Podcast #7 is here — and Ricky’s flying solo! In this episode, we talk BYD’s arrival in Darwin, NT EV infrastructure updates, free AEVA memberships for under 25s, and Joe’s EV adventures through Vietnam and China (with a special segment on NIO’s battery swapping tech).

We take a whip around Australia’s EV scene, covering the latest news from every state and territory — and wrap with a hot take on Drive’s 2025 EV of the Year picks, including why Tesla still leads the pack in tech, design, and daily usability.

Don’t miss the video review mentioned in this episode: https://youtu.be/Hf-35gdLY98?si=gfTofO_Jm8drvLl8

We took the all-electric Toyota bZ4X for a real-world spin around Darwin — rain, potholes, parking trials, and all. No fluff, just honest impressions on how it drives, charges, and handles Territory roads.

Big thanks to Bridge Toyota for the loan.

Curious about EV life? This is where it gets real.

All driving was done safely and within legal speed limits.

In this special bonus episode, Ricky brings you the best moments from the official launch of AEVA NT on March 22nd, 2025. Hear from passionate voices driving the Territory’s electric future: Randall Jones (AEVA NT Chair), Hunter Murray (Deputy Chair), Edon Bell (AANT), Zacharia from Spartan Future, Jo Cruickshank & Cheryl Willoughby (NT Government), Dan Deleur (Project Distraction), and Scott Cahalan (CDU). From EV conversions and roadside solutions to smart policy, training, and innovation—this episode captures the momentum powering NT’s electric transport revolution. Plug in and enjoy!

Big news—AEVA NT is officially launching! In this episode, Ricky and Joe dive into what this milestone means for the NT’s EV community and what to expect at the launch event this Saturday, March 22nd, at CDU Casuarina Campus.

They break down the event highlights, including key speakers from the NT Government, CDU, and AANT, plus the latest updates on EV incentives and infrastructure. With new chargers rolling out across the Territory and AEVA NT now in place to drive awareness and advocacy, the future of EVs in the NT is brighter than ever.

If you're an EV owner, considering the switch, or just curious about the movement, this is your chance to be part of history. Tune in to get all the details, and we’ll see you at the launch!

In this bonus bit, Joe catches up with Noddy, a passionate AEVA NT member, to hear about his EV journey right here in the Northern Territory. From early days with a Nissan LEAF exploring spots like Litchfield and Lake Bennett to upgrading to a Tesla for towing and long road trips, Noddy’s got plenty of stories to share.

Living in the NT, he’s seen firsthand the challenges and rewards of going electric. Noddy talks about navigating remote charging stops before fast chargers were installed, using tools like PlugShare to plan trips, and how he’s now able to drive from Darwin to Alice Springs with DC charging all the way. He also gives us a glimpse into life off-grid with solar panels and batteries, showing how he’s managing power outages with ease—sometimes even running his house entirely on stored solar energy.

It’s not just about the EVs, though. Noddy highlights the role of community, sharing how being part of AEVA NT has connected him with like-minded locals working to push for better EV infrastructure and renewable energy adoption across the Territory. He also offers thoughts on what’s needed to make electrification more accessible, from improving solar farm integration to expanding fast-charging networks.

Whether you’re in Darwin, the Outback, or anywhere in the NT, Noddy’s perspective is a great insight into how EVs are making their mark in our unique environment. If you’ve been curious about making the switch or just want to hear what’s happening on the ground in the Territory, this one’s for you!

In this Pod Snap, we celebrate making the front cover of the Sunday Territorian! Ricky and Joe reflect on the journey of starting their EV podcast, connecting with the NT community, and sparking conversations about the future of electric vehicles. Plug in and join the celebration!

In this episode of the NT EV Podcast, Ricky and Joe kick things off with some exciting news—their feature in the Sunday Territorian newspaper! They share their thoughts on the exposure and what it means for raising awareness about EVs in the Northern Territory. It’s a proud moment and sets the tone for an episode packed with insights and updates.

Next, they dive into the latest EV trends and developments. From new state-of-the-art chargers in remote areas like Katherine and Adelaide River to South Australia’s rollout of off-grid solar chargers, the upgrades are a huge win for EV owners navigating isolated locations.

The conversation then shifts to hybrids and EV adoption. The latest government mandates are creating a lot of buzz, and Ricky and Joe discuss whether hybrids are just a stepping stone or if they’re here to stay. They even take a nostalgic turn, reflecting on vintage vechicles and imagining how electrifying classics could preserve their charm while bringing them into the future.

It doesn’t stop there. EVs are making waves in farming, mining, and logistics, and the duo explores how these industries can embrace electric vehicles despite the unique challenges of the NT’s vast landscapes. There’s also a shoutout to Tasmania’s first EV rally, which is driving awareness and excitement. Plus, they dig into the challenges of making NT apartment buildings EV-ready and what needs to happen next.

Whether you’re a long-time EV enthusiast, someone who’s just EV-curious, or even a skeptic, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of food for thought. So grab a coffee, plug in, and join Ricky and Joe for another entertaining ride into the world of electric vehicles.

In this bonus bit of the NT EV Podcast, we dive into the must-know tips for anyone thinking about buying a second-hand electric vehicle. From battery health and charging options to warranties and resale value, we cover the key points to help you make a smart choice. Tune in for practical advice and insights inspired by a fantastic article from Drive.com.au.

Perfect for NT locals looking to embrace EV life!

We explored Evee, a platform that makes renting electric vehicles, including Teslas, simple and accessible. Perfect for eco-friendly getaways or first-time EV experiences, Evee offers flexible rentals with clear pricing, including insurance coverage.

You can choose from models like the Tesla Model 3 or Model Y and explore at your own pace. With a user-friendly interface and a focus on sustainable travel, Evee is paving the way for more people to experience the benefits of EVs firsthand. It’s an exciting option for anyone looking to go electric without the commitment!

In this Pod Snap, we break down the essentials of Level 2 EV charging—how it works, where to find it, and why it’s a game-changer for EV owners. Learn about Darwin’s charging setups, the difference between Level 1, 2, and 3 chargers, and what makes Level 2 the sweet spot for convenience and efficiency. Perfect for anyone new to EVs or curious about the tech driving the future of transport in the NT. Plug in and take your knowledge to the next level!