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Tough policy measures are essential for Australia to significantly increase electric vehicle sales and meet climate objectives, according to car manufacturers. They advocate for more financial incentives and a proposed 2035 ban on petrol cars.
Transport Sector Emissions
The transport sector accounts for approximately 22 percent of Australia’s total emissions. Projections indicate that emissions in this sector will continue to rise in the coming years.
Climate Targets and Electric Vehicles
Analysis from the Climate Change Authority reveals the importance of electric vehicles (EVs) in achieving national climate goals. To meet the target of reducing emissions by at least 62 percent by 2035, EVs must represent half of all new vehicle sales within the next decade. This translates to around 9 million electric vehicles.
Emerging Electric Vehicles
- The BYD Shark has emerged as the first plug-in hybrid ute available in Australia.
- This model is currently the second most popular electric vehicle in the nation, following the Tesla Y.
Industry Advocacy for Stronger Measures
Julie Delvecchio, CEO of the Electric Vehicle Council, has called for the government to impose targets for electric vehicle sales and set a timeline for phasing out petrol and diesel cars. This would enable better tracking of progress toward emission goals.
Current Government Initiatives
- The Albanese government has implemented pollution penalties aimed at reducing petrol and diesel vehicle sales.
- However, there are currently no specified targets for electric vehicle sales or deadlines for ending internal combustion engine vehicle sales.
International Comparisons
Several countries have already initiated bans on the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles, setting the stage for a global shift toward electric mobility:
Country | Ban on Petrol Car Sales | Ban on Diesel Car Sales |
---|---|---|
Norway | 2023 | 2035 (phasing out) |
Singapore | 2030 | N/A |
China | 2035 | 2035 |
United Kingdom | 2035 | 2035 |
European Union | 2035 | 2035 |
France | 2040 | 2040 |
Spain | 2040 | 2040 |
Government Stance
Despite these industry calls for concrete actions, Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen has stated that implementing targets for electric vehicles or banning petrol and diesel sales is not on the government agenda.