Zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) deliver a wide range of environmental, economic and community benefits.
They form a crucial part of the Queensland Government's ZEV Strategy 2022–2032, which aims to accelerate the shift to cleaner, greener transport. This strategy ensures our energy network can support the transition to ZEVs.
Compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) save on ongoing refuelling, maintenance, and registration costs.
All ZEVs tested in the past 5 years received a 5-star safety rating from the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).
There are 2 main types of zero emission vehicles (ZEVs):
Queensland Electric Super Highway provides on-the-go charging options.
While not considered zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can be a suitable alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles, if driven mostly on battery power.
PHEVs features:
Zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) have a higher purchase price than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles due to their technology. As new models enter the market, prices will continue to fall. ZEVs use fewer moving parts and require less frequent servicing. The Electric Vehicle Council of Australia advises the operating costs of ZEVs are 70% cheaper per km, when considering maintenance and fuel costs, than conventional internal combustion engine vehicles.
The battery pack accounts for roughly one-quarter of the total ZEV cost. Battery prices are expected to decrease and this is likely to lower ZEV purchase prices in the future.
Queensland offers registration duty savings for battery electric vehicles (BEVs)—hybrid and electric.
For a comprehensive overview of long-term costs and savings, refer to the Electric Vehicle Council.
In 2022, the transport sector contributed to approximately 17% of Queensland's greenhouse gas emissions, making it the second highest emitting sector. Zero emission vehicle (ZEVs) can significantly lower emissions:
Electric vehicle technology can reduce air and noise pollution, improving public and environmental health.
The energy used to charge ZEVs from the grid will become greener and more sustainable as Queensland continues with its 50% renewable energy target by 2030, 70% by 2032 and 80% by 2035.
While Australia is highly reliant on imported liquid fossil fuels for most of its transport needs, Queensland is completely self-reliant in terms of electricity production. By using electricity, ZEVs will help reduce the Queensland economy’s dependency on fossil fuels, while supporting the use of renewable and locally produced energy.
Many Queenslanders already charge their ZEVs using a home solar system, making them carbon neutral and free or low-cost.
A fully solar-charged ZEV can significantly reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions compared to a traditional internal combustion engine vehicle.
Most energy for the Queensland Electric Super Highway, fast charging infrastructure is sourced from green energy and offsets.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are extremely efficient, converting 77% of their stored battery energy into power at the wheels, compared to the 12–30% efficiency of internal combustion engines.
Zero emission vehicle (ZEV) batteries are designed to meet the driving needs of most Australians, with typical ranges of 480–550km.
The average Australian drives 33km per day and will not need to charge their vehicle battery every day. ZEVs also have the benefit of charging with a power point at home, or anywhere with access to electricity.
Vehicle manufacturers and private companies are continuing to research battery recycling and re-purposing. This has been particularly successful overseas, especially in supporting energy grid management.
The Queensland Government is also developing a battery strategy, to support local manufacturing and create new jobs.
Zero emission vehicles, 18 Nov 2024, [https://oss-uat.clients.squiz.net/transport/projects/electricvehicles/zero-emission-vehicles]
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