NRMA introduces electric vehicle charging features within app

NRMA has started rolling out its new national DC ultra-fast charging network - which will consist of at least two chargers with a combined capacity of 300kW at each site - alongside a number of other EV charging game plan.

To complement the network rollout, NRMA is launching new features within the My NRMA app to enhance drivers’ EV charging experience, including showing charger availability and peak use times, and taking payments for using chargers.

The new app features have been designed to provide an all-in-one companion for travelling around Australia in an EV.

Using the app, drivers will be able to find NRMA chargers, check real-time availability and operational status, and find out what times certain chargers are busiest.

Combined, NRMA aims to bring a much-improved experience to its members to make EV road trips as smooth and convenient as possible.

NRMA begins taking payment for EV charging

Starting from 27 September, NRMA will switch on charging at three charger location: Sydney Olympic Park, Wallsend and Picton. From this date, costs will vary from 54 cents per KW up to 150 KW and 59 cents per KW above 175 kilowatts for ultra-fast charging.

By the end of October, it is planning to start charging at all its EV fast-charger sites across NSW. This will include both new and existing DC fast-chargers, with different rates for units that charge at a rate of 150kW or under, and over 175kW.

You can check in the My NRMA app to find the current rate. The EV app features are now available for all NRMA members to use, as well as for EV drivers who seek to use the network.

Those joining the NRMA for the first time will also receive 12 months of free membership - plus of course, access to other benefits such as member discounts that My NRMA membership offers.

Non-member drivers who arrive at a charger will need to download the app and sign up in order to continue using the NRMA Electric network.

Payment will only be available via the app, which allows users to set up a preferred payment method for charging sessions.

This feature eliminates the need for RFID and credit card swipes, making the charging process quicker and more efficient.

Once charging is completed, an invoice can be downloaded from the MyNRMA app.

Introducing idle fees for “squatters”

Addressing the issue of queuing and charger availability, NRMA will eventually introduce idle fees.

There will be a grace period of 15 minutes, but customers who leave their cars plugged in after charging will be charged an extra fee for every minute their vehicle is left plugged in at the station.

Don’t worry if you aren’t next to your car the entire time though. Should you choose to leave your car while it is charging, the app is designed to send an SMS or email to you based on your preferences, nudging you to return in time for the charging session to finish.

Around the clock tech support

If drivers do run into hurdles while trying to access the NRMA Electric network, tech support is available via online chat and phone.

Even in remote areas or reception black spots, you'll have on-site access to Wi-Fi, so you can always reach out for help.

This article was last updated on 22 November, 2023.