Electric vehicle share service delivers retirement living first

Bolton Clarke has become the first retirement village operator to sign with electric vehicle start-up Ohmie GO to provide an e-mobility solution for residents.

Under the arrangement, Ohmie GO will provide a premium Tesla 3SR+ electric vehicle for the exclusive use of residents in Bolton Clarke’s Europa on Alma retirement living community at St Kilda. The first residents will move into the newly completed community in the new year.

Bolton Clarke General Manager Property Development James Mantis said he was excited to announce the agreement - one of a number of innovations designed to “future proof” the village.

“Looking at the international trends we know electric vehicles are growing in popularity – particularly in urban areas – and when there’s a bigger take-up we want to be ready to meet the needs of our residents,” he said.

“The Ohmie GO solution includes EV infrastructure, an 100% electric fleet, maintenance, insurance, servicing, booking & management app, a dedicated community manager and powerful analytics.

“Residents will be able to book use of the share car directly through the Ohmie GO app on their smart phone or iPad, or via the concierge.

“We want to encourage more EVs and give residents access to electric vehicle infrastructure, including installing charging bays in the basement car park.

“It makes sense to provide this additional option for those who may want to make the change from being a two-car family, or who don’t want the hassle of maintaining a vehicle with registrations.

“The Ohmie GO solution will give residents a sustainable and economical alternative to traditional vehicle ownership.

Ohmie CEO Kyle Bolton said: “We are delighted to be working with Bolton Clarke to bring Ohmie GO to its retirement living residents. We have built Ohmie GO from the ground up, creating the best eMobility experience in the world, and therefore have specifically chosen to work with Tesla and the best electric vehicle and ebike manufacturers in the world. Its a frictionless end-to-end solution.”

Mr Mantis said he hoped the arrangement could be rolled out to other Bolton Clarke developments in the future.

Europa on Alma will also incorporate smart meters, solar panels feeding electricity directly into communal areas, motion sensor light fittings and a rainwater capture tank to irrigate communal gardens.

High tech security features include keyless building entry, video Intercom and Bolton Clarke InTouch emergency assistance.