The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries has applauded the Tasmanian government wanting an all-electric fleet by 2030, but has slammed the NSW government for wanting to implement a road user charge for EVs.
“The announcement that the Tasmanian Government plans to transition its fleet to 100% electric vehicles by 2030 shows a forward-thinking government that acknowledges the importance of addressing climate change and improving health outcomes for its people,” FCAI chief executive Tony Weber says.
“Tasmania’s unique position with its renewable energy advantage means that the fleet will utilise domestic energy sources and create a more affordable second-hand electric vehicle market that will support the longer-term widespread adoption of low emission vehicles.
“This proposal shows great leadership by the Tasmanian Government and will hopefully inspire some less progressive governments around Australia,” Weber says.
But Weber says a statement by the New South Wales Government announcing a road user charging plan just days after the South Australian Government also announced a similar plan shows just how out of step parts of Australia are when it comes to climate change.
He says the latest announcement by the New South Wales Treasurer showed just how far behind some Australian states are when it came to encouraging environmentally friendly initiatives.
“Global automotive companies have invested billions of dollars to develop environmentally friendly vehicles and all around the world progressive governments have supported the introduction of these vehicles,” Weber says
“But here in Australia, we inhibit their introduction by levying extra charges on them. It simply beggars belief at this early stage of electric vehicle introduction.
The automotive industry notes that excise and the treatment of motorists and their vehicles is a long-term issue. The industry recognises that road user charging is a complex topic that needs to be discussed in a holistic manner and on a national basis.
“A sophisticated discussion is required to determine how we encourage the uptake of all low and zero emission vehicles. These vehicles offer economy wide benefits, including improved health outcomes, and will make a major contribution to improving our environmental scorecard for the benefit of future generations,” Weber says.
