RAC has welcomed a new Electric Vehicle Strategy and $21 million Electric Vehicle Fund announced yesterday by the WA Government.
RAC General Manager Corporate Affairs Will Golsby said the Strategy was an important step toward accelerating the uptake of electric vehicles and driving down harmful vehicle emissions in WA.
“Low and zero emission vehicles, including EVs, will play a crucial role in driving down emissions, helping to improve our air quality and reduce the number of people killed through exposure to harmful pollutants,” Mr Golsby said.
“Australia and WA continue to lag behind much of the world when it comes to electric vehicles, which is why initiatives such as this Strategy are so important in our push for a cleaner transport system.”
A 2019 survey of RAC members revealed nearly 64 per cent of Western Australians wanted more government action to reduce vehicle emissions, and almost half would consider buying an electric or hybrid vehicle as their next car.
“Public appetite for low and zero emissions vehicles is clear, but to drive further adoption we need to address concerns such as cost, range anxiety and access to charging infrastructure,” Mr Golsby said.
“Through the Electric Vehicle Strategy, the WA Government is taking positive action toward addressing some of these concerns and giving more confidence to both manufacturers and buyers.
“In addition to substantial investment in charging infrastructure, it is encouraging to see the Strategy includes minimum EV targets for the State Government’s own fleet, which will help drive activity in the broader market.
“It’s also pleasing the Strategy highlights the need for a national CO2 emissions standard, something most other OECD nations already have that is urgently needed in Australia.”
“RAC has consistently called for action to support the uptake of low and zero emissions vehicles and we look forward to engaging with government, industry and the community to continue driving the transition to cleaner transport.”
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RAC Media Contact: Caitlin Barr, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
