The power utility is scheduled to go live in early June.
Each of the ultra-fast chargers can deliver 350kW of power. That means each charger can add about 350km of range to an electric vehicle (EV) in 10 minutes.
Evie Networks is the charging provider of the station and chose the Avenel site because it met the company’s customer experience criteria for access, security and amenity.
Evie Networks chief executive Chris Mills said Avenel was part of a search of the Seymour area for a suitable candidate as the first highway site beyond the outskirts of Melbourne.
“The site demonstrated easy access to and from the motorway regardless of which direction you’re travelling, 24-hour security and lighting and 24-hour amenity, so you can get some food and take a break while the car is securely charging,” he said.
“You don’t have to be with the car when its charging. You can lock it and head into the roadside restaurant for something to eat confident the app will keep you updated on the state of the charge.”
Mr Mills said the chargers were designed and manufactured by Tritium, an Australian company based in Brisbane.
“Tritium is a world leader in EV charging equipment technology with offices in Australia, United States and Europe and sales of chargers across the world,” he said.
“As well as the highway network, we are also rolling out a network of metropolitan based fast chargers, with our first phase focusing on sites in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.
“Our aim is to roll-out a network of fast-charging stations using Tritium 50kW chargers such that no matter where you are in the metro area you are within 15 minutes of a publicly available fast -charger.
“We acknowledge that most charging will be done at home using off-peak electricity, but this network of convenience chargers will underpin confidence in transitioning to EVs knowing no matter where you travel within the city or between cities, you are able to top-up when needed.
“Knowing there is a network of EV chargers not only along the highways but also spaced within the city means you can drive an EV satisfied that you can get where you need to go with ease.”