The federal government's target to reduce emissions by between 62 per cent and 70 per cent by 2035 from 2005 levels means accelerating and getting many more EVs on our roads.
The Climate Change Authority’s ‘2035 Targets Advice’ said that half of all light vehicles sold between now and 2035 must be electric to meet the lower end of the target range.
More than 20 times the number of electric passenger vehicles need to be on the road than there are today – more than 5 million EVs that would otherwise have been petrol and diesel vehicles, according to their report.
EVC chief executive Julie Delvecchio said: “Increasing EV uptake is the highway to Australia’s 2035 climate target.
“To hit the 2035 target, one in every two cars sold within the decade must be electric – that means we need to shift gears and support more Australians to make the switch.
“The transport sector is the nation’s fastest growing source of emissions and is set to become the largest by 2030. So it’s encouraging to see the federal government recognises that electrifying transport is at the centre of reaching climate goals.
“It’s great to see Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minister Chris Bowen recognise that Australians are taking up EVs at record rates. The federal government has invested in incentives including the Electric Car Discount, the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, and programs like ‘Driving the Nation’ to expand public charging.”
Today, the federal government also announced an additional $40 million to support the roll out of kerbside and fast EV charging.
“The government’s new funding in support of the target for EV charging is a good step, because we know that charging is a critical part of driving EV adoption,” Ms Delvecchio said.
However, Ms Delvecchio said getting 20 times more EVs on the road by 2035 would require governments and industry to work together, in particular additional investment from states and territories which have removed many EV incentives.
“We must look beyond passenger cars – decarbonising heavy vehicles is just as critical. Australia should also invest in emerging technologies like vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid,” she said.
“Fewer emissions, cleaner air, quieter streets, fuel savings, and a more stable grid – that’s the power of more EVs on our roads. We look forward to working with the government to progress its ambition to encourage EV uptake and getting more everyday Australians to realise the benefits of driving electric.”
Contact details:
Sofie Wainwright: 0403 920 301