We’re committed to supporting the innovative ideas and projects that enrich our region, and we’re confident about the power of electric vehicles (EVs) for our transport future.
Alongside Powerhouse Partner, the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN), we delivered the Zero Emissions Transport Hackathon (ZET Hack), which sought innovative solutions for the future of Australian transport.
What is ZET Hack?
Held in November 2020, the ZET Hack challenged teams of entrepreneurs from around the country to present novel solutions that would accelerate community adoption of zero-emission transport solutions. The virtual event was supported by a wide network of industry partners, including Nissan, SG Fleet, the Electric Vehicle Council, the ACT Government, the Australian National University (ANU), Jet Charge, Accenture and the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. Many of these organisations are also included in the ‘Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services’ (REVS) project, a world-first project developing the potential of vehicle-to-grid technology in Australia.
The competition was strong, with a number of impressive ideas boiling down to three leading ideas. From AI-driven charging apps, to introducing amenities at EV charging locations—just like your local petrol station—the winning team, ‘XKG’, presented the XKG Electric Vehicle Experience Centre.
The number of EVs on our roads is increasing rapidly, with EVs expected to account for 10% of global passenger vehicle sales by 2025, and 58% by 2040*. Any change to your daily routine can be daunting, but like any new technology, there’s also a lot to learn—and a few electric misconceptions have been gathered along the way. That’s why XKG presented the Experience Centre, an end-to-end electric vehicle education and engagement centre, aimed at lowering barriers for customers considering switching from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to an EVs.
The team recently completed an extended incubation period, facilitated by CBRIN. Throughout this process, XKG had the opportunity to develop their idea while supported by industry leaders.
Sean Davis, Group Manager of Strategic Partners and Energy Solutions at ActewAGL, was feeling energised by the outcomes of the hackathon, saying, “The ZET Hack was an exciting whole of industry collaboration, and we were excited to be able to offer participants access to our strong network of industry partners—throughout the hackathon and into the incubation period for XKG. As an organisation committed to fostering innovation in the region, this was a great opportunity to support a bright idea that could power our community for the better”.
The XKG incubation period has now finished and the team will have the opportunity to present their concept for seed funding at an upcoming CBRIN Wednesday Connect session. To learn more about the Wednesday Connect sessions, see CBRIN’s website for details.
Want to know more?
Will your next car be an EV? See what our local energy experts have to say about the most common EV facts and misconceptions.
The renewable energy boom is here. Our Green glossary is here to help you decipher the carbon footprints from the carbon offsets, and more.
Our Powerhouse Partners, like the Canberra Innovation Network, are just one way that we aim to empower our region. Read more about our partnerships and our Community Grants Program.
References
*Bloomberg