EV Market Surges with New Standards in Effect

The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) is already successfully providing Australian drivers with a rapidly growing range of modern vehicles that reduce emissions, lower fuel costs and deliver community-wide benefits, according to the Electric Vehicle Council. The NVES has been in place since the start of this year but from July 1 penalties and credits will begin to encourage manufacturers to bring their best, most fuel-efficient vehicles to Australia. "July 1 marks a milestone for Australia as we power ahead with fuel efficiency standards and catch up to the rest of the developed world in accessing cleaner, cheaper-to-run cars," EVC chief executive Julie Delvecchio said. "For the NVES to succeed, this next step is crucial because it incentivises manufacturers to bring their best cars to Australia, giving consumers even more choice. "In part due to the NVES, Australians can now choose from more than 150 electric vehicle models, which is double what was available before Australia committed to a fuel efficiency standard. With dozens more EV models on the way, this is a clear sign of growing confidence in the Australian market. "Australians are increasingly voting with their wallets by buying EVs. So far this year EVs have accounted for more than 11 per cent of new vehicles sold which is a new record in this country, and some 17 per cent higher than the same period last year. "This increase is all the more astonishing given the premature withdrawal of state government incentives that would have helped thousands more working families unlock the savings from going electric. "The NVES is not just good for those buying fuel-efficient or low-emission cars that will save them money at the bowser, it's good for everyone. More low- and zero-emission vehicles mean quieter streets, cleaner air, and a healthier environment for us all. "No matter your lifestyle, there's an EV to suit every Australian with some costing just over $30,000 drive away. We now have electric SUVs to ferry families, electric utes for tradies, electric vans for small business owners, and of course compact hatchbacks that are perfect for zipping around the suburbs. "The NVES is finally bringing Australians the cleaner, fuel-efficient cars they deserve. Whether they are plug-in hybrids or full electric, this greater choice is helping keep more money in drivers' pockets instead of flowing to offshore oil companies. "With the high cost of living, more and more Australians are choosing low- and zero-emissions vehicles to cut reliance on volatile foreign-owned fossil fuels and spend less at the bowser."