Queensland has today jumped out ahead of the rest of the nation by joining the global movement toward electric vehicles, which offer huge benefits to families, businesses, energy security, and the environment.
The Queensland Government’s Electric Vehicle Strategy, ‘The Future is Electric,’ details a range of measures through which the state can capture the myriad benefits offered by the global transition to electric vehicles. Strategy measures include the creation of a Queensland Electric Super Highway network, a regional charging rollout, transitioning the government’s vehicles to electric.
Electric Vehicle Council of Australia CEO Behyad Jafari:
“The world’s largest automotive markets have recognised the enormous benefits of electric vehicles, with countries like China, France and the UK announcing they will ban the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles altogether. But Australia has remained the world’s electric vehicle laggard, with only 0.1 per cent of new vehicle sales.
“Today Queensland has lit the way forward for the nation. The benefit of this leadership to Queensland businesses, households, and the environment will be significant in the years ahead.
“The benefits of electric vehicles are so clear that all that is needed is a little support from government to dislodge the boulder from the top of the mountain.
“Our research shows the majority of Australians would be willing to purchase an electric vehicle, but hesitate because they don’t know if the technology is supported by government and infrastructure. This plan removes that obstacle by sending an unambiguous message to the community and industry: Queensland supports the transition to electric vehicles. We implore the other states and the federal government to follow Queensland’s outstanding lead.
“With an enviable supply of renewable energy options, mineral resources, and innovative thinking, Queensland is now well-placed to play a significant role in the future of the electric vehicle industry.
“Australia has the world’s fourth largest supply of lithium and other mineral resources required to make the batteries in electric vehicles, but industry investment has been stalled by the lack of support for its domestic electric vehicle market.
“Today’s announcement puts Queensland in a national leadership position to attract greater economic investment and create jobs to support a transition already well under way globally.”
