The electric truck industry and the trucking industry are stressing that Australia needs a clear zero emissions strategy, as the Australian Trucking Association join the Electric Vehicle Council in calling for the federal government to urgently introduce a National Zero Emission Truck Strategy.
It states that the strategy should include:
- Changing the regulation around width and axle mass limits to increase electric truck supply to Australia
- Signing the global MOU on zero emission trucks to make sure Australia is committed to a clear ambition on medium and heavy vehicles
- Implementing a purchase price inventive for zero emission trucks
- Increasing investment in recharging infrastructure and hydrogen refuelling for trucks
“Australia relies on trucks to function, but right now those trucks need imported oil to keep moving,” said Behyad Jafari, Electric Vehicle Council CEO. “We don’t need to be this vulnerable, because our truck fleet can run on renewable energy we make domestically. We just need to get the policy settings right. With the EV and the trucking industry agreeing on these principles, the government can act swiftly.
Samuel Marks, Sustainability and Future Transport Manager, Australian Trucking Association, in speaking about this initiative said, “Australia has a legislated net zero emissions target but needs a strategy for zero emissions trucks. We need to move from one-off pilot projects to a strategy that enables all trucking operators to plan with certainty for low and zero emissions transport.
“Financial incentives in the United States mean that cost parity for urban electric trucks are already approaching cost parity with diesel trucks, and Australia now risks falling behind. Stronger action now to incentivise and enable trucking operators to deploy zero emission trucks will enable industry to reduce carbon emissions whilst continuing to drive a growing economy.”
Alexandra Kelly, Zero Emissions Delivery Lead at IKEA Australia points out, “Freight is a big part of Australia’s decarbonisation journey with unique challenges. It’s essential for this industry to have dedicated policy support that would enable retailers, vehicle manufacturers, transport service providers and owner-drivers to make the transition to zero emissions delivery.
“As the first home-furnishing retailer in Australia to use electric vehicles for deliveries with our transport service providers, we are committed to achieving 100% zero emissions delivery by 2025. But we cannot do it alone. More is needed to build confidence in the sector that now is the time to electrify.”
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