Z, Powerco & Red Phase Energise New Zealand with Revolutionary EV Chargers

Kwetta is thrilled to announce a partnership with Z Energy NZ (Z) and Powerco through the launch of their debut product.? Introducing two Sky Hook EV chargers at Z Waiouru; these aren't your ordinary chargers. Equipped with advanced tech, they're designed to speed up charge times for EV drivers and lessen the strain on our electricity network during peak times. This innovative solution, developed in Red Phase's tech facility in Napier, aids electricity networks, laying the pathway to the transition to sustainable energy.

In 2021, a high-energy trio of founders – Dustin Murdock (CEO), Dr. Robert Turner (CTO), and Mike Lazelle (VP) – came together with a vision: to not just talk about – but actually make smart grid technology here in Aotearoa. That vision manifested as Red Phase, a venture growing at an electrifying pace.

Dustin has spent a career working for global heavyweights developing power electronics and now leads Red Phase is delighted to be able to talk about the technology finally.? "Keeping this tech under wraps while we developed it was hard! This isn't merely groundbreaking for New Zealand—it will revolutionise the global landscape. Imagine arriving at a station where cars and big electric trucks charge up while they stop for a coffee and a muffin!? EV owners and major trucking companies wanting to switch to EVs have hit a roadblock due to a lack of high-capacity fast-charging infrastructure and technology. Red Phase changes that. We believe we’ve crafted the world’s most powerful charger that doesn’t disrupt the power network.”

Mike Lazelle, who was deeply embedded in the electricity distribution industry before Red Phase, radiates excitement around the grid technology. “Electricity distribution operators worldwide are grappling with the challenge of upgrading their networks to meet demand. Upgrading power grids is a two trillion-dollar problem! We don’t have the resources or time to upgrade them in the traditional way - we need smarter technology. We commend companies like Z Energy NZ and Powerco , who are paving the way and showing the leadership needed to drive real change.”

Red Phase closed its pre-seed fund raise in October 2022 led by Outset Ventures Ventures.? Partner Angus Blair , gives a strong endorsement. "This team stands out for its venture-scale and fast-paced approach to electrification. Using very high-power semiconductor-grade hardware, Red Phase isn’t just a participant; they’re leading the industry. He notes that they are instrumental in our journey toward a completely electric transport fleet, both in New Zealand and beyond."

Robert Turner says, “I have been dreaming of creating game-changing technology to advance society since childhood; seeing our product come alive is surreal. Knowing we’re contributing positively to our planet at the same time makes this venture truly fulfilling."

Owners of EVs that can take high-capacity charging are in for a treat! Charge from 20% to 80% twice as fast, thanks to Red Phase’s powerful 200KW chargers. Imagine a network of these chargers spread all over NZ, allowing you to charge during a comfort stop and then be back on the road fully recharged.

Lindis Jones CEO at Z, remarks, “Collaborating with like-minded partners is pivotal in our collective pursuit towards a low carbon Aotearoa. Red Phase provides a distinct solution tailored for the New Zealand landscape, allowing us to establish high-capacity multi-bay locations without the constraints and expenses of extensive network enhancements.”

The project also received co-funding from EECA (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority) through their Low Emission Transport Fund.?

Over the next year Red Phase and Powerco will use the Z Waiouru chargers as a case study into flexible network operations.

Powerco CEO James Kilty says he’s excited about the potential of the technology to accelerate the adoption of EVs in Aotearoa.

“Electrification of transport is essential for Aotearoa to achieve its net-zero carbon emissions goal. Working with Red Phase is a great opportunity to enable the uptake of electric vehicles because we can install more EV charger infrastructure without needing to do major network upgrades,”?he says.

“We’ll be watching how the Z Waiouru chargers interact with our network with interest.”

Robert has a closing request: “We’re on a mission to transform the EV charging industry and iron out those reliability issues that have been a thorn in its side. And we can't do it alone, and we need your help! So, if you run into a glitch or even if things just seem a bit off, please let us know. Another charger nearby? Give it a try. Or better yet, ring us up at 0800 RED PHASE. Every bit of feedback helps us evolve, refine, and make a better charge experience!”

So, as you navigate NZ in your EV consider taking a picturesque route through the desert road. Marvel at the majestic Mt. Ruapehu and revel in a slice of Kiwi ingenuity at Red Phase’s pilot site at Waiouru. Welcome to the future!

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