The introduction of an electric vehicle ridesharing trial between commuters’
homes and the Devonport ferry is being applauded by Drive Electric.
The not-for profit group, which promotes the uptake and benefits of EVs in New Zealand, says Auckland Transport’s decision to go electric for the trial shows the organisation is doing its bit to promote sustainable transport solutions.
“Ridesharing has a part to play in making public transport more accessible for commuters,” Drive Electric deputy chair Duncan Stewart says.
“The fact that Auckland Transport has chosen to source electric vehicles for the trial illustrates it is looking at possible ways to reduce the city’s carbon footprint.”
Allowing the ridesharing service to be booked via an app is an innovative use of technology, Stewart says.
“Commuters are more likely to use the service if it’s convenient. Being able to easily book a ride through an app just makes sense.”
Stewart hopes AT’s decision might encourage other public and private sector organisations to consider using EVs for commercial purposes.
“More and more organisations are adopting electric vehicles for everything from grocery deliveries to rubbish collection these days. This continues the trend. “
“It’s fantastic to see ridesharing added to the mix.”
Contact: Drive Electric deputy chairman Duncan Stewart 021 599 575 or duncan@driveelectric.org.nz
Editor’s notes: Drive Electric is a not-for-profit group that includes many electricity, financial services/car leasing and transport industry leaders on its board. It has several functions, including undertaking research about issues affecting electric vehicles, lobbying the government to continue setting ambitious targets for electric vehicle uptake and helping educate the public and corporate sector about the benefits of EVs. Its goal is to mainstream EVs and achieve more energy independence over time.
