Media Release

RACQ’s Head of Public Policy Dr Michael Kane said the Government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy, announced today, would make the country’s transition to electric vehicles more achievable and fairer for consumers.

“A fuel efficiency standard is important to increase the supply of electric vehicles and other fuel-efficient cars into Australia to meet consumer demand,” Dr Kane said.

“Australia is one of only two OECD countries still without a fuel efficiency standard which is causing our nation to become a dumping ground for high emission vehicles.

“If we were to continue without any standards, there would likely be a lack of supply and competition for cleaner cars and as a result, higher EV prices.

“Some of our members tell us that they are thinking of buying an EV in the next few years but a number of roadblocks are in the way, particularly when it comes to affordability and supply. A well-designed standard will help address this.

“The quicker we can increase the number of cleaner vehicles on the new-car market, the faster they will become available on the second-hand market, and that’s where we will see the real improvement on affordability and uptake.”

Dr Kane said the Club also welcomed the Government’s recognition that any new standards will need to address the diversity of transport needs across Australia, to ensure motorists have access to the vehicles they need for both work and leisure.

“We need to think about the technology, innovations and opportunities that could reduce the emissions in our light-commercial and 4wd fleet. This will need leadership to change what works for Australia,” he said.

RACQ looks forward to working with the Federal Government during the consultation phase and development of the Fuel Efficiency Standard. 

To read RACQ’s submission to the National Electric Vehicle Strategy click here.