Australia has finally been given the greenlight on a national electric vehicle strategy, and after a decade of inaction, the potential to reshape and modernise our transport system is within reach. To get it right, we must implement strong, robust fuel efficiency standards without loopholes or lengthy phase-in periods. These standards, called for in an overwhelming number of submissions, would require vehicle manufacturers to limit average emissions across their vehicle fleet – reducing carbon emissions and fuel costs and getting more electric models into the Australian market.
We must also set a date for the phase out of fossil fuelled vehicles, electrify our bikes and public transport, and remove perverse tax breaks that encourage the purchase of utes. This is essential to counteract the emissions benefits from electric vehicle sales.
The National Electric Vehicle Strategy has the potential to wean Australia off imported petrol and diesel, reduce public health costs, and capture more value from the minerals we export – boosting regional jobs and reinvigorating local vehicle manufacturing. It could also help us tackle climate change, as our transport sector is currently letting us down and risking us missing our 2030 emissions reduction target.
However, since the Albanese Government first announced that fuel efficiency standards would be considered as part of the strategy, progress has stalled. We must ensure that the final Electric Vehicle Strategy includes strong enough standards to encourage car brands to bring their electric models here. We must also focus on decarbonising heavy transport, installing charging infrastructure in apartments and remote areas, and vastly increasing the uptake of active and public transport.
The fossil fuel vehicle industry has previously pushed back against the introduction of standards in other car markets and are now attempting to undermine and weaken Australia’s forthcoming standards. But we must not be distracted from getting the job done. We must go full throttle and introduce the long-awaited National Electric Vehicle Strategy complete with strong fuel efficiency standards. Only then can we reap the rewards of a modernised transport system that is cleaner, greener, and more efficient.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
