Charging forward with partnership
Toyota New Zealand and its luxury brand, Lexus, have named New Zealand manufacturer Evnex as their official partner and supplier of smart-home EV chargers.
Toyota sought a charging partner as its line-up of battery EVs (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) has more than doubled this year with the launch of a Hilux BEV, a RAV4 PHEV, the bZ4X Touring and a second-generation bZ4X.
Tatsuya Ishikawa, chief executive officer, says partnering with Evnex was a natural move for Toyota NZ as it aims to make electrified mobility more practical and accessible for New Zealand customers and fleet operators.
“Electrification isn’t just about building great vehicles. It’s about making ownership simple, practical and confidence-inspiring,” he adds.
“As we expand our electrified vehicle line-up, we’re equally focused on the ecosystem that supports our customers long after they drive away.
“When looking closely at Evnex, a local company based in Christchurch, we saw a strong alignment with our customer-first approach.
“Evnex ticks a lot of boxes for us as they have a nationwide installation network, which matches our nationwide store coverage, local manufacturing, proven customer experience, sustainability credentials and, most importantly, a future technology roadmap.”
Ishikawa says while New Zealand’s EV charging infrastructure is growing with Government, EV and PHEV owners primarily charge at home or at work.
Home charging, and what it costs to install, is often part of the purchase decision. Evnex chargers suit most single and three-phase homes and workplaces, with no switchboard or meter upgrades needed.
“A key practical challenge for many customers and organisations considering battery electric vehicles is access to reliable charging infrastructure,” he continues.
“We know that partnering with Evnex will give our customers a solution backed by reliable installation, excellent service and long-term support.”
Ed Harvey, Evnex founder and CEO, says the company has grown into the largest manufacturer of home EV chargers in Australasia since launching in 2013, with more than 16,000 of its chargers helping to power drivers on both sides of the ditch.
“We’re on a mission to make clean and affordable energy effortless for every home,” he explains.
“We’re extremely excited to be working with Toyota New Zealand to grow that number as they continue their electrified journey.”
The partnership is intended for private and fleet vehicle purchases, with the first demonstration of the accord being the rollout of the Hilux BEV Driver Series.
The series places the new Hilux BEV with up to 15 fleet decision-makers across New Zealand from August to November 2026, providing hands-on experience with the vehicle in everyday commercial operations.
Ishikawa says the series will provide real-world testing and Evnex will support participants by providing access to home and workplace charging solutions where required.
Under the partnership, Toyota customers will also have access to charging solutions supported by Evnex’s installation, service and customer support capabilities.
Consumers will receive a five-year charger warranty through Evnex, extending beyond its standard four-year protection to align with Toyota’s New Vehicle Extended Warranty programme for eligible customers.
