Trevor St Baker-backed Evie Networks powers up for deal; UBS mandated
Evie Networks, owner of Australia’s largest network of electric vehicle fast-charging stations that dot Ampol and Dan Murphy’s locations, is hunting for a capital partner to power its growth ambitions.
Street Talk understands Evie has had UBS’s bankers preparing a deal that would see it bring in a new investor (or investors) to join long-time backer Trevor St Baker. The energy industry big-wig has been Evie’s financial backbone, having tipped in $100 million over its lifetime.
Flyers detailing the process are expected to hit inboxes this week.
Evie Networks CEO Chris Mills with an electric vehicle at one of its charging station.
Potential investors are being told Evie has built Australia’s largest fast-charging EV network, spanning 160 DC charging stations across 14 cities. It has struck partnerships with the likes of Hungry Jack’s, Dan Murphy’s, Ampol, Craveable Brands, North Sydney Council and even the shopping malls owned by AMP Capital.
Now, it wants to test the playbook in US and South East Asia, creating room for a deep-pocketed investor to come in alongside the St Baker Energy Innovation Fund which would stay invested.
Evie was founded in 2017 by ex AGL Energy executive Paul Fox, who serves as chief strategy officer. It lists Rodger Whitby, the chief executive officer of the St Baker Energy Innovation Fund, as a co-founder and director.
St Baker is Evie’s chairman. He is also an investor in EV fast charger manufacturer Tritium, which supplies chargers to Evie.
Evie has been commissioning about 15 charging stations a month, faster than competitors. Its network is said to be running at 98 per cent capability.
In addition to big bricks-and-mortar retailers, it works with car rental companies and councils. Lastly, it
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