Automotive Dealership EV Charging Grants – The DRIVEN Rebate for Car Dealers Explained
As Australia continues towards its target of a net-zero future, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is a step in reducing transport carbon emissions. At the core of this journey are the dealerships and automotive repairers who sell, service and maintain these vehicles. To support this critical shift, the Australian Government has committed $40 million to the Dealership and Repairer Initiative for Vehicle Electrification Nationally (DRIVEN) Program – a grant that offers substantial funding to help Australian automotive dealerships and workshops install EV charging infrastructure.
As a key player in the EV infrastructure space, EVSE is excited to share the details of the DRIVEN Program and how it can benefit businesses across the country, including those in regional and remote areas. Continue reading to further understand what the program is, how it works, and how your business can get involved.
What is the DRIVEN Program and Why have they provided this grant for car dealerships?
The DRIVEN Program is a government initiative designed to support the automotive sector as it navigates the transition to increasing electric vehicle sales and servicing. The program has been allocated a funding of $40 million to focus on the installation of EV charging infrastructure at automotive dealerships and authorised repairers across Australia.
The automotive sector will help play a pivotal role in achieving Australia’s net-zero emissions goal, and the DRIVEN Program aims to ensure that businesses are equipped to meet the increasing demand for EV sales and services.
When Does it Starts
Opening date:
Wednesday 22 January 2025 10:00am AEDT
Closing date:
Sunday 30 April 2028 5:00pm AEST
Closing date is 30 April each financial year for the duration of the program unless funding is exhausted prior.
What do you get?
Up to $2,500 per eligible smart EV charger that has been purchased and installed on your site. Multiple EV chargers can be installed on your site and included in your claim. The maximum rebate amount for multiple chargers per eligible site is up to $20,000.
Eligibility Criteria for Car Dealerships for the Grant
The application process for the DRIVEN Program is designed to be as simple and straightforward as possible. EVSE is here to support businesses through the application process if required. Make sure you include enough detail and supporting evidence in your application
To qualify for the DRIVEN funding, businesses must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include:
You must also be one of the following:
- a licenced motor dealer/trader
- a service centre associated with a licenced motor dealer/trader
- an automotive repair business, compliant with Australian Standards 5732:202 2 (EV operations – maintenance and repair) and which has at least one current member of staff suitable qualified to undertake work on EVs.
You can’t apply if you are:
- any organisation not included in eligible entities listed above
- a business operating out of a residential premises
How to Apply for the grant for Dealerships to install EV charging stations
To be eligible for a rebate, you must have purchased and installed at least one eligible smart EV charger(s) at an eligible site (listed in section 4.2 of the grant opportunity Guidelines) on or after 26 March 2024.
Eligible smart EV chargers include:
- AC plugs with 7 kW charging speed (single phase)
- AC plugs with 11-22 kW charging speed
- DC plugs with 50 kW or less charging speed.
Let EVSE Help You Drive the Change
The DRIVEN Program offers a fantastic opportunity for automotive dealerships and repairers to enhance their EV infrastructure and support Australia’s transition to a cleaner, greener future. At EVSE, we are committed to making the transition to electric vehicles as smooth as possible for businesses, and we are here to guide you through the entire process – from application to installation.
For a free quote please complete our Commercial Quote Process – EVSE Australia here
Contact EVSE today to learn more about the DRIVEN Program and how we can help your business access funding and install EV charging infrastructure.