2022
You are eight months into this promise. What are the biggest challenges you face? The largest challenge we have at hand revolves around the charging infrastructure. Between the EV brands tested, we’ve managed an average range of 290kms per half day on a full charge. That range is circa 55% less than a full tank of fuel in an ICE, and just about serves our range requirements today. In our growing market, we estimate that we will need circa 55% more range by next summer, assuming a projected healthy recovering market. We are about to start tests on a new set of EVs which are estimated to solve this issue. The solution comes in the form of a mix of fast and normal charging for a healthy battery lifetime, which is an important consideration with manufactures guaranteeing batteries for 8 years or 160,000kms. There are also limitations on how many chargers can be installed on standard threephase electricity meter and fleet operators will inevitably have to invest in their own substations - a hefty investment of around €150,000. Outline plans are already being drawn up for an electricity substation at our logistics centre, and discussions with the government have also confirmed plans for such substations to be partially funded via grants or tax credits. The island’s charging infrastructure would also best be planned for fast charging, leaving the eight to ten-hour charging
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“We remain committed to the investment needed in EVs and the infrastructure required to make it work, as well as being responsible stakeholders to help achieve our national targets.” cycle at base, or the home in the case of consumers. This will however require existing parking spots to be given up for EV charging spaces, and we all know that parking is in short supply. The lurking skills gap of mechanics, electricians, panel beaters and other needed trades also needs to be tackled. On this front, it is commendable that MCAST has already embarked on such a plan. Would you say that enough is being done? As a country we need to be more serious about this vision. With a growing population and with consumption on a constant long term growth rate, we need to acknowledge that these changes are an absolute must. This will require national commitment and the execution of a plan which doesn’t waiver every year or two. Green washing and skindeep changes will not cut it. A national transi-
tion to EVs needs to be addressed at multiple levels involving all stakeholders. As the main conductor, the Government doesn’t have it easy; however important stakeholders also include consumers who affect demand, and by default shape supply. Fleet operators will need to be ready to invest for the demand generated. In the meantime, we will continue to build and shape the technology that addresses our industry’s challenges. We remain committed to the investment needed in EVs and the infrastructure required to make it work, as well as being responsible stakeholders to help achieve our national targets. However, make no mistake: a single operator’s efforts will be a futile effort if it is not complemented by a concerted effort and commitment by all stakeholders. We hope that everyone realises this and starts walking the talk. n
Shaping the future of
working and living W
e are living through a fundamental transformation in the way we work. From the expansion of AI into the mainstream, to the pandemic and the influence it will have for flexible working, momentous change is coming that is at the top of business leader’s agendas. The Quad Central can’t fix everything, but we can provide versatile office layouts, flexible working areas, well-ventilated, well-designed spaces that present a brand-new opportunity for businesses and communities here in Malta. We are, in a way, shaping the future of working and living. While a hybrid work environment has enabled the world to remain productive, it has not been perfect. It has been a socially isolating period, lacking the human connection that can
be a vital source of inspiration, creativity and community. And while there are many technical advances made which shall remain, there is a general global consensus around the benefits of a move back to the office. What will change is how that office should look and feel. At the Quad Central not only do our offices deliver, but there are spaces crafted for interaction and living even outside of the office itself. With its own village feel, there are green areas, piazzas with benches (and wifi), shops, supermarket, and a range of services we know people need for their daily lives. You can dine here or take away, work out at the gym, drop your little ones at childcare, all in a day’s work. The Quad Central is designed to support our lifestyles, for today and for the future. n
About the Quad Central Projected to achieve LEED® Platinum Certification, the Quad Central is set to be the next-generation office, catering, and amenity development, opening in 2021. The development has been carefully crafted to foster the best possible tenant and visitor experience, whilst implementing notable green and environmentally friendly building concepts. The concept of the Quad central is one that embraces personal well-being and improved lifestyle for anyone working or visiting the project, through the centrality of the address as well as a unique mix of amenities, including ample public parking, a childcare centre, fitness facility and wide range of retail. More information about the Quad Central is available at www.thequad.com.mt
