Electric transport
Electric vehicles are becoming more popular in Australia every year because they’re cheaper to run, are more energy efficient, produce lower emissions and require less servicing.
Electric bikes
Many people in Darebin have already discovered the joy of e-bikes, using them for childcare and school runs, work commutes, shopping and more. E-bikes are a great option for riding up those steep hills, or to give you a boost when travelling longer distances. A significant number of residents are even choosing to replace their car with an electric bike.
If you want to carry kids, shopping, pets or larger loads, an electric cargo bike could be a great option. Electric cargo bikes can usually carry up to 60kg on their rear racks, or in the front box – with some heavy-duty models carrying up to 250kg. Some workplaces offer salary packaging or other support for purchasing an e-bike. You can also look at rental or lease options for more flexibility.
- For more information and support including free monthly bike checks, bike skills workshops and handy maps check out our bike riding and walking page.
- Read about how a local family's first travel choice is an e-bike in the story Sheer convenience of e-bikes.
- Hear expert panellists and local e-bike riders share their e-bike insights and tips on the 3-part podcast series ‘Darebin Loves E-bikes’ available on 3CR’s YarraBUG Radio show.
Electric cars and vans
If you’re looking at buying a new car, there’s never been a better time to think electric. Electric vehicles are cleaner, quieter and cheaper to run than a standard petrol or diesel car. And if you have solar panels you can charge your electric bike or car with clean, free energy at home.
Electric vehicle charging
Council has developed an Electric Vehicle Charging Policy(PDF, 181KB) that encourages electric car and bike charging in new developments, as well as setting guidelines for how we will facilitate the expansion of the public EV charging network in Darebin.
Charging at home
The cheapest and easiest way to charge your electric vehicle is at home if you have access to off-street parking. If you have solar panels, make the most of your free power by charging during the day.
For more inspiration read our story, Saving with 100% clean energy in Preston, about a local resident who transitioned to electric vehicle charging at home.
Public charging stations
Darebin operates public electric vehicle charging stations run by 100% renewable energy at the following locations:
Darebin has also partnered with EV charging operators Evie and Jolt to operate and maintain all other public EV charging on Council managed land. You can find all public EV charging stations on the Plugshare.com EV charging app.
Leasing an electric vehicle
Australian tax laws can make buying a new electric vehicle through a novated lease much more affordable. Check with your employer to see if novated leases are one of your employee benefits.