MTAA stands ready to help implement the National Electric Vehicle Strategy

19 APRIL 2023

The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) welcomes the Albanese Government’s release of the National Electric Vehicle Strategy.

The roadmap is designed to ensure better choice of electric vehicles for Australian consumers, along with creating more and improved options for buyers of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

Part of the strategy includes the introduction of a Fuel Efficiency Standard which will outline how much carbon dioxide a vehicle produces. The aim will be to incentivise consumers to use of more fuel efficient ICE vehicles.

“The Federal Government has announced it will work with industry and the community to finalise details for the Fuel Efficiency Standard. MTAA and its state and territory members stand ready to consult on this issue,” said MTAA interim CEO Geoff Gwilym.

“MTAA welcomes the Fuel Efficiency Standard. Implementing this scheme should mean a greater choice of fuel efficient vehicles in the Australian fleet, some of which are currently unavailable in Australia because they are diverted to other, more accepting, markets.”

However, MTAA cautions that the Fuel Efficiency Standard must be calibrated to Australian market conditions, and not be overly aggressive in its initial design and introduction, as it could undermine vehicle affordability and choice for consumers.

“The Albanese Government says the introduction of the Fuel Efficiency Standard could save Australian motorists $519 per year in fuel costs. Consumers will welcome that and we welcome it, too.”

Of course, Australia lags behind much of the rest of the world in EV take-up and this needs rectification.

“MTAA looks forward to the government keeping the promises announced in the National Electric Vehicle Strategy and stands ready to assist in its implementation,” said Mr Gwilym.

“There is much to do: decreasing barriers to purchasing EVs, vastly increasing the availability of charging stations and networks, and tightening fuel efficiency thresholds for new vehicles.

“Industry also requires robust training for technicians and first responders to ensure safety and quality repairs and maintenance.

“Government should not underestimate the importance of a well-planned and supported transition for employees across the automotive industry to ensure they can adapt and re-skill. If this doesn’t happen, we could lose up to 20 per cent of small and medium enterprises.

“All of this can be done and, when it is, Australia will be a better place.”