inbox. LETTERS
Car manufacturers missing the point
Nick thinks manufacturers should offer something like the Hyundai i20 as an EV.
It’s good to see more EVs coming out from different manufacturers. What is disappointing is they seem to mostly be based on premium versions of a particular model, increasing cost unnecessarily. A lot of people just want a good reversing camera, parking sensors and something to plug their smartphones into. A lot more EVs would be sold if they were also available in basic, cheaper versions. Also where are all the small EVs? People buy small cars for their fuel efficiency. Isn’t it logical that they would buy small EVs for the same reason? For example, in Australia, you can only get the Hyundai i20 in a performance hatch for a premium price. Why not offer the same car as an EV? Seems a lot of missed opportunities as I believe many people would like an EV but baulk at the initial cost. Nick Sorensen // Burnie
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JOURNEYS // FEB / MAR 2022
Charging infrastructure needed in the north-west As the owner of an electric vehicle, the biggest problem in north-west Tassie is a lack of charging infrastructure, and an unwillingness to install it. There are almost no public chargers west of Devonport. I’ve talked to people in towns like Stanley, which has no charge points, and there’s no interest at all, even when I pointed out that the Tassie government is funding charger installation at businesses. So, having a somewhat shorter-range EV, we don’t visit any of those towns like we used to, and those whole regions will be missing out on a lot of tourism as EV numbers ramp up. I think the biggest issue is not changing the minds of vehicle owners, it’s convincing business owners that they should install destination chargers. This is something RACT really needs to be working on. Lance Turner // East Ridgley
Speeding in Scamander Speeding through Scamander has increased to a dangerous and unacceptable level. Although the limit is 50km/h and 60km/h through the town, I have observed flagrant disregard for any limits. I know State Growth is aware of the problem, however, nothing is done and will not be done until a tragedy occurs. A typical buck-passing exercise. Preferably three speed cameras are required for the almost 3km stretch through Scamander. Adrian Nolan // Scamander
