Heavy vehicle industry ‘ready for EV challenge’

HVIA gives thumbs up as other groups critique lack of policy development

 

The Heavy Vehicle Industry Association (HVIA) has pledged its readiness to support the growth of electric vehicle development, uptake and support in the wake of a Senate committee report on the issue.

The move comes as the Motor Trades Association (MTA) of Queensland joined a chorus of concern that EVs’ Australian future, though assured eventually, is being hampered by federal policy inertia that will lead to lost opportunities and economic damage.

With the Australian Logistics Council (ALC) having pointed to a the lack of attention on the heavy vehicles sphere in the Senate Select Committee on Electric Vehicles’ report, the HVIA has underlined its industry’s readiness to shoulder the load that’s expected to go its way.

 “The heavy vehicle industry has been extremely proactive in research, development and activation of sustainable energy solutions,” HVIA chief executive Todd Hacking says.

“Our truck and engine manufacturers are producing exciting results from collaborations across the globe, including here in Australia.  

“We are pleased that many of the recommendations of the Senate committee were aimed at ensuring the recharging infrastructure and integration of the electricity grid is being developed.

“There is obviously still a long way to go but HVIA will continue to work proactively and collaboratively with government to ensure all relevant parties are aware of the developments as they arise and sensible solutions are found.”


Read the ALC’s response to the Senate committee’s EV report, here


On the light vehicle side, MTA Queensland echoes sentiments critical of the ongoing EV policy vacuum.

“The Report is accurate in stating that EV uptake in Australia falls well behind that of other comparable countries which has been influenced by the absence of sensible policy from government,” its CEO, Dr Brett Dale says.

“EVs are transforming the mobility sector globally and sales are growing exponentially in countries where government policy supports their uptake.

“Without an effective regulatory framework, Australia’s imminent EV uptake is likely to be slow resulting in EV manufacturers unlikely to bring their various makes and models to the Australian market.

“We look forward to the development of new policy that supports this environmental, social and economically important issue for Australia.”

Meanwhile, the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA) has issued a statement supporting the Report’s recommendations and re-iterated that new car dealers are not obstructionists, and recognise the future and value of EVs.

It expresses disappointment at Tesla Owners Club evidence to the Senate committee suggesting dealers are not promoting the sale of EVs.

“There are some important recommendations in the report and new car dealers are looking forward to playing their part in supplying EVs to the Australian market,” AADA CEO David Blackhall says, adding: “To resist selling EVs would reduce profits and put dealers in breach of their franchising agreements with vehicle manufacturers, potentially risking their businesses.

“Electric vehicles are part of the future and dealers are determined to be part of a thriving industry which supplies them to the market – the primary reason that they are not yet selling well is related to supply, cost and range.”

 

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