Published August 23, 2012
By Philippe Crowe
A branch of the Canadian Automobile Association – CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) – unveiled its first electric vehicle charging station today in organization’s parking lot at its Thornhill headquarters.
The new charging post was installed this summer by Siemens Canada and electric vehicle owners can recharge at no cost, compliments of CAA SCO.
“Installing the new charging station is just one step in our continued efforts to help educate and support motorists no matter what they drive,” said Teresa Di Felice, director Government & Community Relations, CAA SCO.
The dual level 2 charger provides two 7.2-kw ports with retractable cords and, as you would expect, is designed for outdoor use.
“Siemens' electric vehicle infrastructure solutions offer municipalities, corporations, fleets and utilities a smart, safe and simple method to charge electric vehicles,” said Robert Hardt, CEO, Siemens Canada. “We're excited to work with CAA SCO in supporting their green initiatives and contributing to the growing electric vehicle infrastructure in Canada.”
CAA SCO has also added a zero emissions, fully electric vehicle, to its corporate fleet. The Nissan Leaf is a company vehicle to be used by the association’s employees for corporate events, conferences and off-site meetings.
“Alternative fuel vehicles help reduce the impact of driving on the environment. Having our own electric vehicle shows our members we are leading the way in accepting new technologies,” added Di Felice.
The CAA SCO’s charging station is part of the ChargePoint network and can be located through the ChargePoint Web site.
CAA Insurance offers a 5 percent discount to policyholders who own an electric vehicle or a hybrid insured with CAA SCO.
