So, the federal Climate Change Bill has found its way through government with the centrepiece being the meeting of a 43 per cent carbon reduction by 2030, based on 2005 emissions.
Reaching net zero by 2050 is the aim.
This looks great from a distance, but some nervousness is afoot in automotive.
What the Bill doesn’t outline is what this target means for motorists.
We know the transport sector adds around 18 per cent to our CO2 emissions, but there are no plans that accurately outline how the industry and car drivers will be asked to lend their hands to the carbon reduction wheel.
While state politicians and the Federal Government declare how many people will drive zero and low emission vehicles (ZLEVS) by 2030, there is almost no accurate planning that examines vehicle production and global supply chains.
Australia sells only one per cent of all new vehicles manufactured globally each year and, consequently, we are an insignificant right-hand drive market with little influence on production.
Our top selling vehicles are 4X4 utilities – things like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger – which, in July, sold 6441 and 2934 units respectively.
Tradespeople and recreational motorists who tow boats and caravans use a lot of these vehicles.
What will replace 4X4 utes when the government effectively bans these petrol and diesel vehicles?
There are few direct electric and hybrid alternatives manufactured anywhere in the world. I urge governments to pause and look at the bigger picture when making claims about the future vehicle fleet.
The vehicles politicians want us to drive just may not be here.
Words: TACC State Manager Bruce McIntosh. As featured in The Mercury 23 September 2022.