Victoria has set a date
So, the State Government has pledged to halve Victoria’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 – a move that makes the Federal Government’s silence even louder. Central to the plan is offering motorists a $3000 subsidy when buying new zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs) – specifically a car – in a bid to dramatically increase ZEV sales to 50 percent.
It’s a good move, but conditions are in place.
There are fewer than 7000 ZEVs currently registered in Victoria. The State Government’s subsidy announcement should significantly increase that number. However, the cheapest ZEV passenger car in the local market is $43,990 and the subsidy is capped at the luxury car tax threshold of $69,000. That means only five models meet the criteria.
Another aspect of the Andrew’s plan is a road-user charge. The 2.5 cents/kilometre for ZEVs (two cents for plug-in hybrids) has been criticised by some industry groups. But if a motorist uses the roads, they should help pay for the build and upkeep of this much needed infrastructure.
The roadmap to a greener state includes a pledge to power all government-owned enterprises by renewables from 2025. There are also budgets to reduce agricultural emissions and increase the uptake of ZEVs for public transport use. The government will increase its fleet of ZEVs by purchasing 400 new cars and build more charging infrastructure at a cost of $19 million.
VACC will be sitting on the government’s expert panel to ensure good policy and infrastructure decisions. Getting industry in the driving seat is crucial if Victoria is to meet its target.
Words: VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym. As featured in the Herald Sun 7 May 2021.
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