10 Oct 2018 Benalla Ensign, Benalla VIC (General News) Owning and operating an electric vehicle in Benalla will become easier under a state government plan to develop Australias fastest charging stations in regional Victoria. The plan includes using local expertise and businesses to develop the concept. Energy Minister Lily DAmbrosio recently announced Australian business Chargefox would receive $1 million to develop Australias first ultrarapid vehicle charging sites in Euroa and Barnawartha North. Chargefox has made an electric vehicle charge management software platform designed and built in Australia and will create two charging sites with multiple charging stations at each. The company will match the state governments funding to build the stations, which are expected to be operational by the end of October. The stations will dramatically reduce charging time for drivers, with up to 400 km of range delivered in 15 minutes, the fastest of any charger currently deployed in Australia. The locations of the charging sites will make it easier for motorists travelling interstate, providing a boom for local economies, and boosting tourism in regional Victoria. The state government has legislated for net zero emissions by 2050, and this new investment in electric vehicles will help the sector along the journey to a lowcarbon future. State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said ultra-rapid charging sites would bring more tourists to our towns and help drive down emissions. Were bringing the worlds best technology to regional Victoria and supporting local businesses along the way, Ms Symes said.