GWM Australia is set to transform a disused petrol station in Melbourne into an electric vehicle-powered lifestyle destination, using its ORA 5 EV to demonstrate how modern electric cars can do far more than simply transport people from A to B.
Taking place on Sunday, August 2, the brand’s ORA Fun Station activation will breathe new life into the former Little Sam’s Service Station in Collingwood. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, the once-forgotten forecourt will be reimagined as a Euro summer-inspired courtyard featuring Italian-style food, barista-made coffee, live music and entertainment.
The activation forms part of GWM’s latest Australian marketing campaign, “Live a Little MORA”, which aims to highlight the practical benefits of EV ownership through real-world experiences.
Read more: GWM to globally launch 3L turbo-diesel engine in Australia
Former Collingwood service station gets a new purpose
Located at 302–310 Wellington Street in Collingwood, the former service station will be transformed with striped umbrellas, terracotta styling and European-inspired décor.
While the site’s original fuel bowsers will remain in place, GWM wall chargers will be installed alongside them, creating a visual contrast between Australia’s traditional petrol-powered past and its increasingly electrified future.
The temporary makeover is designed to show how spaces historically built around internal combustion vehicles could evolve as electric vehicle adoption continues to grow.
Read more: GWM ORA 5 SUV arrives in Australia as first customer vehicles land at ports
GWM ORA 5 EVs to power the entire event
At the heart of the activation are three GWM ORA 5 electric vehicles, which will act as the sole power source for the event.
Using Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, the EVs will generate enough electricity to run everything on site, including the espresso machine, food truck equipment, DJ booth, speakers and lighting.
Rather than relying on generators or mains electricity, GWM says the ORA 5’s battery systems will power the entire activation throughout the day.
Read more: V8-powered GWM Tank 700 luxury SUV coming to Australia
GWM showcases the potential of V2L technology
Vehicle-to-Load technology allows electric vehicles to supply power to external devices and appliances, effectively turning the vehicle into a mobile power source.
The feature can be used to operate camping equipment, household appliances, power tools and outdoor entertainment systems, but GWM believes many consumers remain unaware of its capabilities.
Steve Maciver, Head of Marketing and Communications at GWM Australia, said the activation was created to demonstrate the technology in a practical and memorable way.
“This is about showing people what an EV can actually do beyond simply getting you from A to B,” Maciver said.
“Vehicle-to-Load technology is one of the most overlooked features of an electric vehicle. Many people simply don’t realise their car can power appliances, tools, camping equipment or, in this case, an entire event.”
“By taking a disused petrol station, one of the most recognisable symbols of the petrol era, and transforming it into the ORA Fun Station, we’re demonstrating how EV technology can power experiences, not just journeys.”
Read more: GWM Haval H6 Hybrid and PHEV AWD Upgrade Offer
‘Live a Little MORA’ campaign comes to life
The ORA Fun Station serves as the physical expression of GWM’s “Live a Little MORA” campaign, which plays on the ORA name while encouraging Australians to think differently about EV ownership.
By turning a winter day in Melbourne into a Euro summer-themed destination powered entirely by electric vehicles, GWM aims to show that EVs can support everyday experiences and social occasions, not just daily commutes.
The company says the activation aligns with its broader strategy of showcasing real-world EV benefits rather than focusing solely on performance figures and technical specifications.
What can visitors expect?
Visitors attending the free public event can enjoy a range of complimentary food, drinks and entertainment throughout the afternoon.
Highlights include Italian-style street food and focaccia paninis served by the retro Via Gianlu food van, alongside premium espresso coffee made on-site.
Entertainment will include a live DJ playing Euro-house, funk and disco tracks, while attendees can also have custom car-themed caricatures drawn, challenge friends to a game of petanque, and take home a Polaroid photo with the ORA 5.
Read more: GWM plans ambitious 2026 model rollout for accelerated growth
Event details
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026, 11:00am–3:00pm
Where: Little Sam’s Service Station, 302–310 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
Cost: Free public entry, including complimentary food, coffee and entertainment
By transforming a former fuel station into a fully functioning event powered entirely by electric vehicles, GWM is aiming to demonstrate how EV technology can reshape not only the way Australians travel, but also how they power everyday experiences.
Comments
New Comment