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So what actions are needed to increase EV uptake in New Zealand?

What we have observed overseas is that a coordinated, focused approach is needed.  Once that coordination and focus starts, EV uptake increases exponentially.  The question is, “what is the focus and what needs coordination?” To help the Minister of Transport consider this question, Drive Electric’s Chair, Mark Gilbert, presented 10-point’s to Hon Simon Bridges recently.Government leadership through its fleet purchase power, including opening up a category for second hand electric vehicles, unless new car prices can achieve desired fleet  price points

  1. Coordination and leadership- the Drive Electric leadership opportunity with cross industry participation.
  2. Create national and regional roadmaps, with Drive Electric helping lead the development of these roadmaps.
  3. Authoritative information for consumers- events to create test drives and dispel myths. More Plug In Fleet Days – an important role for Drive Electric.
  4. Authoritative information – an important role for Drive Electric.
  5. The development of charging infrastructure- supporting the role out of the Renewables Highway as well as other private enterprise charging operators.
  6. Reducing RMA barriers to charging infrastructure- making the process easier- one standard more or less.
  7. Increasing electric vehicle supply into the New Zealand market, including second hand cars for fleets, supporting Pt 1 above.
  8. Policy initiatives, including consideration around the Fringe Benefit Tax for EV and/or other financial measures, such as a fund to support a range of EV initiatives like marketing the benefits for EVs to fleet users, charging infrastructure in marginal geographic regions.
  9. Legislation Opportunities, around standards, extending Road User Charges, Registration Plate colour for EV’s, use of T2/T3 Lanes.
  10. EV and smart grids – making sure EVs contribute positively to the electricity sector.

These 10 points can be grouped as follows:

  • Fleets:  Increasing the number of both new and used EV in the government fleet.  Increasing the range of vehicle options for fleets.
  • Leadership and coordination: covering authoritative information, a national roadmap that are linked to regional roadmaps, charging infrastructure,
  • Policy: covering the RMA, Fringe Benefit Tax, Road User Charges, Registration Plates and use of high occupancy lanes.
  • Electricity sector:  Understanding how EV may impact the electricity system and how EV can be managed to provide benefits as part of a smarter grid.

We seek your feedback to these 10 points, and invite you to provide a few of your own?

Please send your views to eric@driveelectric.org.nz.

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