Why the NRMA supports electric vehicles
The NRMA’s foundational purpose has always been better road and transport infrastructure, and as we enter this era of electrified motoring, we remain as committed as ever.
We're leading the national debate on electric vehicles (EVs) because we know it is the right thing to do, however we also acknowledge the community has mixed views.
The reality is we are in a period of revolutionary change in transport: Major advances have been made in the electrification of transport worldwide, and Australia is at risk of falling behind.
Given the significant environmental impact of internal combustion engines (ICE), countries such as France, Germany, UK, Norway, Ireland, Netherlands, Israel, India, China and several cities in the USA have committed to banning petrol and diesel vehicles from 2025 to 2040.
Major auto manufacturers have signaled their desire to exit the ICE vehicle market and have announced plans to introduce a wider range of EV models that will supplement those already available in Australian automobile stores.
EVs sales have grown in recent years, but range anxiety and high prices continue to be major barriers. We willcontinue to work with all levels of government, policy makers and industry leaders, to advocate to alleviate these imposts for EV uptake.
We believe we have an important role to play in driving EV uptake by focusing our advocacy efforts on infrastructure, taxation and supply. The transition to EVs will deliver myriad benefits to our nation, such as:
- A transition to EVs will help drive down the cost of living;
- EVs reduce noxious emissions, meaning healthier and greener communities;
- EVs cost less to run thanks to cheaper re-fueling and minimal maintenance;
- The transition to EVs means increasing our fuel security by focusing on efforts to produce the energy to power EVs right here in Australia; and
- EVs will help Australia meet its Net Zero emissions targets.
The actions we are taking now to ready our members and the community for EVs will lead to lower motoring costs, maximised vehicle choice for consumers, and better health and environmental outcomes to support our future generations.
Australians will always have access to large, fast and safe vehicles, but in the future, they will be powered by electricity.
