University of Queensland researchers have outlined 5 key steps needed to speed up Australia’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs). The Federal Government recently passed the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) requiring car makers to reduce carbon emissions for new vehicles from January 2025.
Dr Kai Li Lim, Dr Dia Adhikari Smith and Associate Professor Archie Chapman said the legislation was an important step toward sustainable transport, incentivising car manufacturers to export their most fuel-efficient vehicles to Australia.
The researchers said 5 further measures would put Australia on the road to an EV future:
- Improve charging infrastructure
- Enable EVs to supply energy back to the grid
- Create local supply chains for EV batteries and parts
- Upskill an EV sector workforce
- Replace fuel excise revenue
The researchers said announcements in the recent Federal Budget including the NVES, investment in integrating EVs with the grid and local battery manufacturing provide hope for accelerating Australia’s transition to an EV future.
“We can also expect an influx of EVs into the country thanks in part to policies overseas, so it’s imperative Australia – and our infrastructure – is ready,” Dr Lim said.
“The transition to EVs will require both strategic investment and careful thinking, as charging technology and charging behaviour continue to evolve.”
“This is challenging but vital work that requires a collaborative effort across technology adoption, policy formulation, financial mechanisms and workforce development,” Dr Adhikari Smith said.
“Australia has a unique opportunity to devise a framework to support the uptake of EVs that will benefit consumers, maintain our transport capabilities and reach environmental goals.”
The recommendations formed part of a submission by UQ researchers in response to an inquiry into the transition to EVs by the Federal Parliament House Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water in early 2024.