For the soon to be released National Electric Vehicle Strategy to have an impact in this country, it must pave the way for access to more affordable transport. Even if the strategy includes emission standards and supportive policies, it is unlikely to create a massive increase in the number of EVs in Australia, simply because we are still competing with the rest of the world, according to co-founder and Director of the Good Car Company, Anthony Broese van Groenou.
Imports from prioritised jurisdictions are a means of greatly increasing the number of affordable EVs in Australia.
The Strategy opened for consultation in September last year, and is designed to provide Australians with better access to electric vehicles, and ensure industry and infrastructure is ready to support the transition.
The Strategy is expected to be released in the coming days.
"The answer to establishing a healthy electric vehicle industry in Australia, and ensuring these sorts of vehicles are accessible to all is actually ensuring independent importation can occur with ease."
Currently access to a range of additional EV's are restricted by a suite of protectionist legislative measures. The Good Car Company is advocating an easing of these restrictions for electric cars to improve access and affordability while providing consumer protections.
Opening Australia up to more Independent Imports will increase vehicle diversity, accessibility and equity. This is a simple policy change that will create much more affordable EV's for all Australians."
"Whilst our company is Australia's largest independent vehicle importer, the next stage is the upcycling of batteries. We are keen to see the creation of a manufacturing industry around electric vehicles, which would create jobs across the country." Anthony said.
The Good Car Company will be part of an Australian renewables delegation to India, as one of many business leaders visiting the country at the same time alongside Prime Minister Albanese this week designed to continue dialogue between the two countries about opportunities across trade and investment.
"As we look to the future, India could serve as a prominent partner in our bid for renewable energy, and we are looking forward to taking part in the delegation, which we hope will reveal a potential partnership for the electric vehicle batteries industry," Anthony said.
Established in 2019, the Good Car Company cannot currently keep pace with the level of demand in Australia, especially when it comes to consumers seeking second hand electric vehicles. In 2022, Good Car Co received investment from Boundless.
"We currently import from the United Kingdom and Japan, and we know that helping the electric vehicle industry along comes down to access. New electric vehicles are really only accessible to those who can afford them.
"It is a true shame that with a rising cost of living, including the price of fuel, those who most need them cannot not always afford an electric vehicle. Acquiring one would reduce the transportation costs of so many Australians considerably," Anthony said.
Whilst new electric vehicles go for around $50,000-$90,000, via the Good Car Company, consumers can access a second hand vehicle for less than $20,000.
