RACQ statement on National Vehicle Efficiency Standard
RACQ welcomes the Federal Government’s changes to its proposed New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and we appreciate that we have been listened to.
This outcome rightly reflects 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 battery-technology for these vehicles, and the changes announced today will give industry and technology time to catch up.
A well-designed Standard will drive innovation and save motorists money. It will also incentivise manufacturers to send safer cars, utes, and 4WDs to Australia, and ensure they are competitively priced.
RACQ believes it is very important to secure public confidence in the transition to decarbonised transport. Part of that includes continued government investments in EV charging infrastructure, particularly in regional Australia, purchase incentives and developing a future workforce to fix 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.
The RACQ continues to call for the release of the NVES government modelling to support stakeholder consultation.