RAC plugs in to the future of motoring
11 March 2010
The RAC is helping to pave the way for the development of greener motoring in Western Australia through its participation in the Australia-first trial of electric vehicles (EV).
The EV trial, which is spearheaded by the University of Western Australia, CO2Smart and the WA Government, is officially launched today. It will see electric vehicles used in government and private fleets over two years.
As part of the trial the RAC has purchased one EV and will also build two charging stations – one at West Perth and the other at Balcatta. RAC is also offering comprehensive support through roadside assistance, vehicle servicing and insurance.
The EV trial aims to deliver a greater understanding of electric vehicle technology and the impact it will have on the State’s electricity grid and infrastructure.
The groups involved will able to use what they have learned to evaluate the benefits and shortcomings of electric vehicles and assess where improvements need to be made before electric vehicles can become a permanent part of life in Australia.
RAC Group Chief Executive Officer Terry Agnew said electric cars were a major part of the future landscape of the industry, and that the organisation needed to look closely at how that would impact its members and business in the years to come.
He said electric vehicles would play an important role in helping to make motoring greener and in achieving overall emissions reductions in the future.
“It won’t be long before people see electric cars as a viable alternative to the petrol engine,” Mr Agnew said.
“As WA’s peak motoring organisation we need to be in a position to advise our members on what developments there are with electric vehicles, as well as understand the significant impacts this is going to have on our motoring businesses.
“Once we have this knowledge we will be in a position to advocate for the changes that are required to allow for the take-up of greener vehicle technology in WA."
Other participants in the trial include The West Australian newspaper, Telstra, Landcorp, Main Roads WA, City of Perth, City of Swan, Water Corporation, Department of Environment and Conservation, and Department of Transport.
Download the release (pdf)