Time to get serious about EVs?

Less than 10 per cent of cars sold in Australia are EVs, but we'll have to get cracking if we hope to meet the Federal Government'...

Less than 10 per cent of cars sold in Australia are EVs, but we'll have to get cracking if we hope to meet the Federal Government's climate change targets.

The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has called on the Government to remove the barriers preventing an increase in sales.

It warns buyers are not yet purchasing EVs at the rate expected, nor at the rate required to meet the emissions targets.

FCAI's Tony Weber said the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), introduced in January this year, was a key step in aligning Australia’s light vehicle fleet with national emissions reduction targets and manufacturers have responded strongly.

“Carmakers are continuing to expand the range of low and zero emission vehicles, with more than 100 battery electric models and more than 50 plug-in hybrids now available in the Australian market,” Mr Weber said.

“However, BEVs make up less than eight per cent of new vehicle sales so far this year. This highlights that challenges still exist if we are to meet the targets set by government.”

Mr Weber said the barriers to uptake need to be fully addressed if NVES is to successfully contribute to meeting the 2035 target.

“Consumers are not yet purchasing EVs at the rate that was expected, nor at the rate required to meet the emissions targets.

"Key to driving EV take-up is ensuring there is adequate charging infrastructure, reducing the total cost of ownership and that EVs meet the needs and desires of Australian motorists.”

Mr Weber said $40 million for kerbside and fast EV charging was a positive step and complements the work FCAI members have already done to introduce more EVs to the Australian market.

“Ensuring the availability of charging infrastructure is essential if the NVES is to make a difference in meeting climate targets,” he said.

“The legislated 2026 review will be critical to providing an early indication of how the NVES is operating, and how other policies and funding programs are influencing the market.”

 

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