Incentivise Change

Global market forces and international manufacturers are determining the future of automotive technology, and the Northern Territory has a oncein-a-generation opportunity to ensure the right policies and programs will foster the conditions for the automotive industry to succeed in the transition towards the electrification of Australia’s transport.

The MTA has called on the Northern Territory Government to support the transition to electric vehicles and has recommended that they introduce a $3,000 to $1,000 incentive for the first 1,000 zero and low emission vehicles. This incentive should be available to all zero and low emission battery electric vehicles (BEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) over the next four years.

“The Motor Trade Association would be concerned if there were a lack of financial policies to support EV affordability, during a time when a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard is being implemented” said Darrell Jacobs, CEO of the MTA SA/NT.

“These concessions should likewise be extended beyond electric vehicles to hybrids and plug-in hybrids. A typical family might not be able to afford an electric vehicle, but they might be more willing to try a hybrid or plug-in hybrid model which will still emit fewer emissions than a petrol or diesel car.

“Hybrids and plug-in hybrids can be more affordable, reduce range anxiety and provide an entry point for motorists who may not have previously considered an electric vehicle.

“With the Federal Government’s proposed fuel efficiency standard looming large, we don’t want to see ordinary Territorians punished if a Ute is a necessity for their livelihood, or they simply cannot afford an electric vehicle.”

Affordability

With a cost of living crisis underway in Australia, and an emerging fuel efficiency standard, now more than ever, Governments must support the uptake of ZLEVs beyond targets.

“The current Labor Government understands cost of living pressures for the average wage earner.

Affordability has proven to be a major obstacle, pointing out that the cheapest EV currently available is still more expensive than the average Australian new car price.

Motorists should be encouraged to adopt fuel efficient technologies.

“We know if affordability is left unaddressed, motorists will simply not charge our transition to zero and low emission vehicles,” said Mr Jacobs.

“So, we should be introducing incentives, with plans to expand on incentives to encourage ZLEV ownership and this should include all zero and low emissions vehicles.”