Head of Public Policy Michael Kane said the changes announced in late March will allow for a smoother transition on emissions standards for large SUVs and utes.

Dr Kane said the changes addressed RACQ’s call for the NVES to cater for Queensland’s vast distances and lifestyle as well as the lack of fuel-efficient technology in the 4WD and Light Commercial Vehicle (ute) sectors.

“Over time, we will see improvements and changes in engines and battery technology for these vehicles, and the changes announced will give industry and technology time to catch up,” Dr Kane said.

He said a well-designed NVES would drive innovation and save motorists money on fuel.

It would also incentivise manufacturers to send safer cars, utes and 4WDs to Australia, and ensure they were competitively priced.

“Apart from Russia, Australia is the only other advanced nation without vehicle efficiency standards and this should have been fixed a long time ago,” Dr Kane said.

“The longer we don’t have one, the further behind Australia will be in access to the best cars, utes, and 4WDs to drive.”

RACQ believes securing public confidence in the transition to decarbonised transport is very important.

Dr Kane said this includes continued government investments in EV charging infrastructure, particularly in regional Australia, new vehicle purchase incentives, and the development of a future workforce to repair and service electric vehicles.

“We continue to call on governments to support electric bio-fuel vehicle development as a vital means of addressing the weaknesses in battery technology while meeting emission-reduction targets and supporting community resilience,” he said.

The NVES is due to be applied on 1 January 2025.

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