18 Oct, 2022
Yinson GreenTech & Starbucks launch first phase of EV-friendly Starbucks stores
Yinson GreenTech (“YGT”), through its joint venture company Green EV Charge Sdn Bhd, and Starbucks Malaysia have launched the first phase of EV-friendly stores, with the rollout of chargEV chargers at 17 Starbucks stores nationwide.
Under the first phase, 23 charging stations have been installed in Klang Valley, Penang, Malacca and Johor.
A launch ceremony to celebrate the rollout was held at Starbucks Eco Grandeur Drive-Thru at Bandar Puncak Alam. During the event, which was witnessed by management from both companies and members of the media, the parties exchanged a site agreement outlining their commitment to continue exploring suitable locations for further rollout of EV-friendly stores. Attendees also had the opportunity to ride on YGT’s EV and experience a seamless charging experience with chargEV.
The agreement outlines Starbuck’s exclusive partnership with YGT to install and operate a mix of AC and DC charging points at Starbucks stores nationwide. The suitability and allocation of the stores’ parking bays for the installation of chargEV shall be determined by both YGT and Starbucks.
Yinson Executive Vice President of Technology and New Ventures Eirik Barclay said that the partnership aligned perfectly with YGT’s aim of expanding EV infrastructure coverage strategically, whilst helping businesses achieve their own net zero ambitions. “One of the main challenges to EV adoption is range anxiety. To overcome this, we aim to place charge points in as many strategic locations as possible, and where charging integrates seamlessly into regular routines – whether you’re doing a grocery run, having a meal, stopping to stretch your legs on the highway or, in this case, grabbing your usual morning coffee. Achieving this would not be possible without likeminded businesses, such as Starbucks, working with us to provide strategic sites and a customer base. Together, we can strengthen the country’s EV infrastructure to encourage a greener transportation system in Malaysia.”
Yinson Senior Vice President of Electromobility Ruslin Tamsir said, “We are delighted to support Starbuck’s ambition of innovating with more responsible stores by providing chargEV solutions to their stores, and we are jointly committed to rolling out even more charge points over the next few years. The chargEV team warmly welcomes other likeminded businesses to engage with us to find out about our integrated EV solutions and how they, too, can participate in Malaysia’s EV transition.”
Group CEO of Berjaya Food Berhad and managing director of Starbucks Malaysia & Brunei Dato’ Sydney Quays said, “Charging your car should be as seamless as ordering a cup of coffee, and now it can be. As a company, we have always been passionate about protecting our planet and driving innovation to enhance the Starbucks experience for our customers. With the inclusion of EV chargers in our stores, it represents a significant milestone in our sustainability efforts as a company, and we hope will lead the retail industry towards a decarbonized future for Malaysia.”
With a goal of reducing its global carbon footprint by 50% by 2030, Starbucks is reimagining the store experience for greater connection, ease and planet-positive impact. The company continues to rapidly expand its roster of renewable energy and decarbonisation projects around the world in support of its global goal to reduce its carbon footprint and to fulfill its aspiration to become a resource positive company, such as through the introduction of EV charging facilities. The charging stations at Starbucks stores will be offered in either AC (22kW) or DC (50kW) units.
Charging is done via the chargEV mobile app, which is free to download via Apple Store and Google Play. First time EV users are required to set up their profile in the app, which only takes a few minutes. Next, users may select their preferred charging station and view the charging fee via the pay-per-use feature. Using the app does not require a membership, however those who opt for membership may enjoy attractive promotions and discounts from chargEV.
Beginning 1 November 2022, Starbucks customers who are active chargEV members charging their EVs at one of the 17 Starbucks stores can enjoy up to 50% off their first Grande Handcrafted Beverage purchased in a single receipt. Customers simply need to flash their chargEV membership ID on the mobile app at the counter to redeem. The promotion is valid for 12 months and subject to the terms and conditions of the promotion, which are made available at the participating Starbucks stores and on the chargEV Facebook page.
Currently, the chargEV network has more than 400 chargers. To know where the charging points are located, use the app or follow chargEV on Facebook and LinkedIn to find out the latest chargEV stations rollout, news, campaigns and promotions.
