Tesla, an engineering company known to be on the cutting edge of technology, is now changing the face of the Australian retail sector.
In late 2015 Tesla introduced Destination Charging, allowing customers to charge their electric vehicles while parked at specific locations. Since then, a large number of hotels, tourist destinations, airports, sports clubs, restaurants and shopping centres have now implemented the technology.
In July 2017, less than 10 charging stations were located within Australian shopping centres. Fast forward 12 months and that number has jumped to almost 60 across the nation.
National real estate group, Mirvac has implemented Tesla charging stations across 12 shopping centres in their portfolio. They have also introduced the first and only Tesla Supercharging Base at Broadway in New South Wales, with a second Supercharging Base by the end of 2018.
Mirvac’s National Retail Solutions Manager, Timothy Weale notes the increased offerings at shopping centres can be viewed as an additional retail service. “This is an experience that provides a seamless, free and convenient charging service for their vehicles while customers are visiting our centres,” Mr Weale said.
So what does this mean for the future of technology across Australian shopping centres?
Mr Weale made it clear that technology will play a fundamental role in the future of the Australian retail sector. “Despite this, technology is not the ultimate saviour, but a true enabler to help solve our consumer and retailer challenges and pain points,” said Mr Weale.
“Nothing can replace a truly personal experience, however technology is a tool that can enhance those experiences and enable an entire ecosystem to align and meet rising customer expectations,” concluded Mr Weale.
A list of all Australian Tesla Destination Charging stations can be found here.
Written by Alissa Baker
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