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TCD Drive Day: How the DS400Charged Race Cars Off-Grid in Perth

eLumina Global introduced a 400kW battery-integrated EV charging system at Perth’s TCD Drive Day in November 2025. The DS400 unit was deployed at Driver Risk Management near Perth Airport, where it supplied power to electric vehicles without drawing from the conventional electricity grid.

Plug-and-Charge in Challenging Locations

The DS400 system avoids the lengthy infrastructure wait typically associated with grid extensions. With straightforward plug-and-charge capability, it can deliver reliable charging in areas where extending the traditional grid would be prohibitively expensive and time-consuming.

The Numbers That Matter

The DS400 provided ultra-fast charging while only needing 70kW of input from the grid. Its internal battery handled the major load, demonstrating that remote industrial locations can electrify operations without significant grid upgrades.

The DS400 is equipped with dual redundant battery modules, each with a capacity of 175kWh. This design provides failover redundancy – if one module fails, the other continues to operate – making the system highly reliable for mining sites and other operations that require round-the-clock uptime.

Real-World Testing and Industry Engagement

Throughout the day, members of the Tesla Owners Club WA put the DS400 through its paces, charging race cars between sessions on the track. The demonstration attracted attention from fleet operators and representatives from the mining sector, giving decision-makers the opportunity to observe the technology in action and discuss its implications for their operations.

The Bigger Picture

Battery-integrated charging systems like the DS400 can be deployed in weeks, compared to the many months or years required for traditional grid infrastructure. This rapid deployment is a significant advantage for industries seeking to electrify their operations quickly.

The TCD Drive Day demonstration proved that off-grid electrification is not just a possibility but a practical reality. The technology is ready for use, and the economic case is compelling. The next step is for industrial operators to decide how rapidly they will embrace this innovation.

On the day, race cars were successfully charged, fleet operators gathered insights, and the local grid remained unaffected by the event’s power needs.

About eLumina Global

eLumina Global is an Australian technology company that develops advanced electric vehicle charging solutions and energy storage systems. Based in Yatala, Queensland, eLumina Global creates innovative technologies that support the nation’s transition towards sustainable transport and electrification.

Media Contact

Lisa Marsh

CEO of eLumina Global

Lisa.Marsh@eluminaglobal.com

Disclaimer: The above content has been provided by the featured member and is shared for information purposes only. Publication does not imply endorsement by the Smart Energy Council. Any questions regarding the information or claims contained in this communication should be directed to the member organisation.

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