The NSW government has committed an extensive amount of investment into electric vehicles (EVs) in its recent state budget announcement – an investment that has been welcomed by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).
A large portion of the commitment to EVs involves a funding package aimed at expanding and improving EV infrastructure across the state including:
- $149 million to co-fund EV fast chargers, reducing the time needed to recharge batteries.
- $105 million to support businesses and local government fleets in procuring EVs and installing necessary charging infrastructure.
- $20 million to co-fund EV destination chargers at regional tourist spots, promoting sustainable tourism.
- $10 million to co-fund EV kerbside chargers in metropolitan areas, aiding EV drivers without off-street parking access.
- $10 million to co-fund retrofitting of EV infrastructure in apartment buildings, making EV ownership more accessible for residents.
The NSW government has also announced it has dedicated a further $263.5 million to advance rollout of the updated NSW EV strategy.
FCAI CEO Tony Weber says the investment in the future of EVs within New South Wales has the potential to change to state’s automotive landscape.
“The FCAI acknowledges the approach taken to ensure that both metropolitan and regional areas benefit from enhanced EV infrastructure. This balanced investment is essential for ensuring that all NSW communities can benefit,” Weber says.
“The NSW Government’s significant investment in electric vehicle infrastructure is a decisive step towards wide-spread adoption of the zero-emissions technology. By supporting the development of fast chargers, local government and business fleets, and EV infrastructure in key areas, this budget addresses crucial barriers to EV adoption.
“The measures announced today are an important step towards the ambitious 50 per cent target of all new car sales being electric by 2030.”