Statement from Electric Vehicle Council CEO Behyad Jafari on new research from economics advisory firm Mandala Partners.
“A well-designed new vehicle efficiency standard is crucial if we want to end Australia’s reputation as the dumping ground for dated, high-emission vehicles. A strong standard will let us catch up to the rest of the developed world where we can finally embrace greener, cheaper, more efficient cars,” Mr Jafari said.
“Sticking with the status quo would not only be environmentally destructive but also expensive. This research proves the simple truth, that a globally competitive efficiency standard for cars will save motorists money.
“Under a new vehicle efficiency standard, lower running costs and increased competition would drive a reduction in the overall cost of both electric and efficient internal combustion engine vehicles by up to thousands of dollars.
“It’s clear that a strong standard will improve the efficiency of new vehicles, increase the supply of electric vehicles, reduce CO2 emissions, bring health benefits by reducing air pollutants, and save motorists money. We encourage the federal government to build a compulsory, competitive efficiency standard so that Australians can reap these benefits as soon as possible.”