Australia lags behind the rest of the world in EV adoption

Almost three quarters (73 per cent) of Australians believe the country is lagging behind the rest of the world in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, according to a new report.

Research from Jaguar Land Rover’s Driving Australia Forward report has found less than half of Australians think the federal government have a clear vision and policy for electric vehicle adoption.

This is in stark contrast to global leadership, with three quarters of people (73 per cent) believing governments around the world, including the UK, US and Europe, have a clear vision and policy for electric vehicles.

With a clear understanding of the potential economic benefits of electrification, Australians say the government needs to do more.

Eighty-five per cent believe electric vehicles could be a positive economic opportunity for Australia, and more than three quarters (79 per cent) would like to see politicians support electric vehicle adoption and trial new tax incentives to increase the uptake.

Jaguar Land Rover Australia Matthew Wiesner said the electrification of Australian vehicles would happen with or without government support.

“However, Canberra has a real opportunity to take a lead and provide a framework that ensures Australia isn’t left behind,” he said.

Last month, the ACT Government announced an action plan to guide the state’s transition to zero emission vehicles.

The ACT’s Transition to Zero Emissions Vehicles Action Plan 2018-2021 will encourage the use of zero emission vehicles and e-bikes.

“This is about safeguarding in Australia’s future,” Mr Wiesner said.

“Electric vehicles are here to stay and there’s an opportunity to build burgeoning Australian industry which can create jobs and opportunities in sectors like advanced manufacturing, technology and even mining, where there will be increased demand for minerals needed for EV batteries.

“If we let the rest of the world race ahead, we risk becoming reliant on overseas services and products by the time we catch up.

“We need clear and cohesive leadership now to ensure we don’t miss out.”

Jaguar is set to launch its first all-electric vehicle, the I-PACE, in Australia later this year.

From 2020, all new Jaguar vehicle lines will have an electrified option.

 

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