With the cost of technology coming down and the increasing investment from state governments and the private sector, the uptake of electric vehicles (EV) across Australia is gaining momentum. One of the most significant drivers are the rebates and incentives offered by the states and territories that make EVs even more attractive.
Throughout 2021, rarely a week has passed without news of significant investment and development in Australia’s electric vehicles sector. And with the cost of battery technology coming down and the growth of charging networks across the country, the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) is gathering pace.
Just in the last month or so, international investment giant, BlackRock has invested $500 million in South Australia company, JOLT Charge for the rollout of 5,000 free fast charging stations across the country.
Meanwhile, the NSW Government has announced close to 1,000 vehicle chargers will be installed in 50km intervals throughout the state over the next six years and set aside another $160 million to work with the private sector on expanding charging infrastructure. In NSW, EVs are now also permitted to travel in T2 and T3 transit lanes at all times.
In the west, the McGowan Government has announced Australia’s longest electric highway, stretching from Esperance in the south all the way up to Kununurra, as a part of its $21 million Electric Vehicle Fund.
State Governments have also led the way in rebates and incentive programs that aim to reduce the purchase and running costs of EVs. Here is an overview of the programs, state-by-state, and the strategies that are driving the shift to sustainable motoring.
Source: Electric Vehicle Council – August 2021 Report. Available online at: https://electricvehiclecouncil.com.au/reports/state-of-electric-vehicles-2021
(Accessed 17 September 2021)
As you can see, even from this brief overview, there is a substantial amount of development happening in the EV space, and we’re already working with fleet managers to plan the electrification of their fleets.
If you'd like to learn more, speak to your Smartfleet Customer Relationship Manager or contact the team now.
Sources:
“BlackRock funds to supercharge JOLT” Australian Financial Review, 24 August 2021; “Electric avenue: The NSW plan for 1000 electric vehicle chargers” Sydney Morning Herald, 12 September 2021; “WA accelerates towards longest EV fast charging network” Government of Western Australia media statement, 17 August 2021