Other people's junk

25 November 2022

I’m disappointed the ‘grey import’ used vehicles issue is again on the Federal Government’s agenda.

The issue is part of the government’s consultation on the National Electric Vehicle Strategy (NEVS), questioning if importing used EVs will help boost supply.

Industry is ‘all in’ and wants more EVs in Australia but tapping into the used import market is a regressive solution. The safety and consumer risks do not magically disappear because these vehicles are electric. 

Provenance is even more important for EVs. Lithium-ion batteries comprise a major component of EV costs and consumers should have access to factory warranties, national spare parts availability and the security of service capability.

The Albanese Government should consider the risk Australia will become a dumping ground for old batteries. These batteries can be hazardous and should only be handled by industry trained technicians.

It’s no doubt tempting for other countries to neglect their responsibility to properly recycle and dispose of batteries, but it makes no sense for Australia to adopt a disproportional role on this issue.

Mature EV markets (US and Europe) have not resorted to drastic measures such as used EV imports to boost their EV numbers. Instead, they have worked through the OEM and dealer networks to facilitate a safe and considered transition, affording consumers appropriate protections.

Increasing the importation of old EVs is a lazy policy solution which will be bad for consumers, bad for automotive businesses and could even set back our transition to zero emissions transport.

As featured in the Mercury Friday 25 November 2022.