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Subaru UK has partnered with Easee and the St. Helena Government to test the world’s most remote public electric vehicle (EV) charging station on the south Atlantic island of St. Helena. This initiative aligns with the island’s goal to transition to sustainable energy and zero-emission transport by 2030. The trial featured the all-electric Subaru Solterra, which demonstrated its reliability on St. Helena’s rugged terrain.
Key Highlights:
- Remote EV Charging Trial: Located 1,200 miles off Africa’s coast, St. Helena hosted a two-month trial of an Easee Charge unit installed in Jamestown.
- Subaru Solterra Performance: The all-electric SUV proved efficient, using only 20% battery capacity over a full day of driving across challenging landscapes.
- Sustainability Goals: St. Helena plans to generate 80% of its power from wind and solar by 2028, reducing reliance on imported diesel.
- Local Impact: The trial aims to establish a sustainable EV infrastructure for tourism and residents, with plans to expand the charging network by 2025.
The Easee Charge unit, connected by local utility Connect St Helena Ltd., powered the Subaru Solterra during its trial. The SUV was tested across the island’s steep roads and narrow lanes, leveraging regenerative braking to recharge its battery. Residents showed great enthusiasm for the vehicle, with many expressing interest in owning the Solterra.
Subaru UK’s Managing Director, Lorraine Bishton, remarked, “From Subaru’s perspective, it’s an honor to be involved in a project that could potentially lead to a fully sustainable future for Saint Helena.”
St. Helena’s renewable energy infrastructure, currently supplying 25% of the island’s power, is set to expand significantly. Minister Mark Brooks highlighted the importance of this trial in accelerating the transition to EVs: “The next step is to roll out the infrastructure so that we are using electric vehicles more and more on the island.”
The project demonstrates the feasibility of EV adoption in remote locations, showcasing the resilience of both the Subaru Solterra and the Easee charging unit. With ongoing efforts, St. Helena could soon achieve a zero-emission automotive footprint, setting an example for sustainable development worldwide.
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