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Electric Vehicles

The Western Australian Government is considering implementing a strong fuel efficiency standard for electric vehicles to reduce Australia's carbon footprint and promote cleaner air.

If implemented, this will be a significant step towards securing a supply of affordable electric vehicles (EVs) by considering the introduction of a strong Fuel Efficiency Standard. This key policy will undoubtedly pave the way for a sustainable future, reducing our carbon footprint and promoting cleaner air. The Government's leadership in this matter is commendable, and her efforts to ensure that Western Australia remains at the forefront of green technology are highly appreciated.

By implementing a strong Fuel Efficiency Standard, the Government is demonstrating its commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable transportation. This policy will not only benefit the environment but also the economy, as it will create new job opportunities and stimulate innovation in the automotive industry. With the increasing demand for electric vehicles, this move will place Australia in a strong position to meet the growing global demand for green technology.

The Government's decision to consider the implementation of a strong Fuel Efficiency Standard is a significant step towards securing a supply of affordable electric vehicles and promoting sustainable transportation, we can now look forward to a greener, cleaner and more sustainable future for Western Australia.

The Western Australian Government is taking significant steps towards increasing the number of electric road vehicles in the states' fleet. In the upcoming 2023-24 State Budget, the government is confirming an allocation of $125 million for this initiative, focusing initially on public transport buses.

When combined with a commitment of $125 million from the Federal Government, the total program will have $250 million available. This funding will support the acquisition of 130 new locally-manufactured electric buses and the establishment of charging infrastructure at key depots.

In the next fiscal year, the 2023-24 State Budget will allocate an initial $22 million, sourced from the Perth Parking Levy, to purchase and assemble 18 new electric buses. Additionally, this funding will cover the installation of electric charging facilities at the Elizabeth Quay Bus Station.

This investment builds upon the ongoing electric bus trial along the Joondalup CAT route. The trial has involved four battery-electric buses supplied by Volvo through a pre-existing bus agreement with the Public Transport Authority. These electric buses have operated in the northern suburbs and have been successful in transporting over 250,000 passengers in the first year alone. This has resulted in a reduction of approximately 230 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions and covering more than 140,000km.

As part of the trial, the Joondalup bus depot has been equipped with a high-voltage EV charging system. This system allows for overnight recharging of electric buses using a combination of the existing grid network and a 100kW solar array connected to a sizeable on-site battery storage system.

Premier Mark McGowan stated, "Investing in electric vehicles is crucial for our future, ensuring that Western Australia's public transportation system aligns with our net-zero goals. The expansion of our electric bus network is already making a notable impact in reducing carbon emissions. An important aspect is that these buses will be produced right here in Western Australia, fostering local manufacturing jobs and supporting local businesses."

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti added, "We committed to expanding our electric bus fleet last year, and the upcoming allocation of $125 million in the State Budget reflects our dedication to that promise. In collaboration with the Federal Labor Government, the total investment of $250 million over the coming years will lead to the introduction of approximately 130 new electric buses. Furthermore, it will facilitate upgrades such as the installation of charging infrastructure at key depots. The positive response from passengers to the electric buses in Joondalup has encouraged us to allocate more funding to expand this environmentally friendly initiative. The success of having four electric buses carry over 250,000 passengers and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 230 tonnes in just one year fuels our excitement about the potential of a growing electric bus fleet."

More EV videos: @zeroev    Sodium-Ion Batteries    Australian EV production     Australian EV production    Unique-Evs

Visit the Australian Electric Vehicle Association website WA page at https://www.aeva.asn.au/WA.