In July 2025, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) opened consultation on a range of options to encourage the uptake of smart EV chargers. These included:
- Option 1: Status Quo – Continue with current voluntary guidance and approved product lists.
- Option 2: Voluntary Labelling – Introduce optional labels to help consumers identify smart and efficient chargers.
- Option 3: Mandatory Labelling – Require all EV chargers to carry labels showing smart functionality and energy efficiency.
- Option 4: Smart Charger Requirement – Mandate that all new EV chargers supplied in New Zealand must have smart functionality.
- Option 4A: Smart Charger + Mandatory Labelling – Combine smart functionality requirements with mandatory labelling to enhance consumer awareness and choice.
Drive Electric’s Submission
Drive Electric submitted in support of Option 4A (smart functionality with labelling), as it best balances our goals of accelerating EV uptake while ensuring safe, efficient charging infrastructure and importantly enabling consumers up to benefit from a new dynamic energy system.
Download the full Drive Electric submission to MBIE.
Drive Electric regularly meets with and advises key political figures and decision-makers in the transport sector, submits advisory papers on e-mobility legislation, and contributes to government-led policy development groups — helping to shape Aotearoa’s transition to cleaner, smarter transport. Become a member, stay connected and be part of the journey.
