RACQ congratulates Federal Govt as NVES passes Parliament

The Federal Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard Bill 2024 passed the Senate last night, paving the way for all Australians to access cheaper and more fuel-efficient cars, utilities and 4WDs.

RACQ’s General Manager Advocacy Joshua Cooney said the NVES would deliver safety, financial and environmental benefits to all motorists.

“We congratulate the Federal Government for their genuine consultation on this Bill and for taking on board the views of stakeholders like RACQ,” Mr Cooney said.

“We needed this reform to take greater account of the challenges facing the needs of regional Queenslanders and the Federal Government listened.

“Apart from Russia, Australia was the only advanced nation without a vehicle efficiency standard, and this will now incentivise manufacturers to send better and safer cars, utes, and 4WDs to this country and ensure they are competitively priced.”

Under the NVES, car makers will be required to reduce their emissions by selling more fuel-efficient and lower-emission vehicles to avoid a penalty. 

Mr Cooney said the next step was to develop technology that would extend electric capabilities in regional Queensland.

“It’s one thing to legislate emission targets, it’s another to enable cleaner utes and 4WDs that are fit for purpose in Queensland,” he said.

“Any electrified transport strategy cannot leave behind regional Queenslanders or those on low incomes, so we need to ensure those who require heavier vehicles, like utes, are not penalised but supported in the push to decarbonise transport.

“RACQ has made a submission to explore the concept of ethanol range extenders which could double the range of electric utes in regional Queensland. We look forward to working with the Federal Government to see this technology come to life.”

RACQ’s submission on the NVES can be viewed here.