Janus Electric has launched its first solar-powered battery swap station at Sydney’s Moorebank Intermodal Precinct, promoting sustainable freight transport. Powered entirely by rooftop solar, the station allows electric trucks to swap batteries in just four minutes, enhancing efficiency for long-haul operations. With a range of 300-400 km per battery, strategically placed swap stations help minimize downtime and keep trucks on the road longer.
Swap Station to Transform the Freight Industry
The swap station is the first to be built at an intermodal terminal. These terminals facilitate the transfer of freight between road and rail transport. This integration helps optimize supply chains and reduces emissions from diesel-powered trucks.
Janus Electric currently operates eight other swap stations across Australia. More are planned for the near future. The company aims to expand this network to support the growing adoption of electric freight vehicles.
Lex Forsyth, CEO of Janus Electric, emphasized the importance of this development. He stated: “Janus Electric is at the forefront of electric vehicle innovation in Australia, offering cutting-edge solutions to help reduce carbon emissions in the heavy transport industry. Our Charge and Change Stations enable quick battery swaps for electric trucks, providing a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional refuelling methods.”
Government Support and Industry Impact
The launch aligns with the NSW Government's Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy. The policy encourages sustainable logistics and supports the adoption of low-emission technologies. Under this initiative, electric trucks can access state roads without reducing their cargo capacity.
Recent economic modelling shows the freight transport sector contributed $74.3 billion to NSW in 2022-23. The industry is expected to grow to $131.5 billion by 2060-61. Employment in the sector is also projected to rise from 330,000 to 565,000 jobs within the same period.
Jo Haylen, NSW Minister for Transport, highlighted the significance of the shift. She noted that freight demand will rise by 34% from 2021 to 2061. The government is working closely with industry leaders to develop sustainable transport solutions.
Advancing Sustainable Freight Transport
Janus Electric’s battery swap station reduces reliance on fossil fuels. It also addresses range limitations faced by electric trucks. By using rooftop solar energy, the station minimizes grid dependency and maximizes renewable energy use.
With more swap stations planned, Janus Electric is accelerating the transition to green transport. The company’s network will enable more electric trucks to operate efficiently. This will further reduce emissions and support Australia’s net-zero targets.
The launch of the Moorebank swap station is a pivotal moment for the freight industry. It demonstrates that electric trucking is both practical and scalable. As infrastructure continues to develop, Australia moves closer to a more sustainable transport future.