Delvecchio to lead Electric Vehicle Council

Julie Delvecchio has been appointed the new Electric Vehicle Council chief executive.

She replaces inaugural chief executive Behyad Jafari, who stepped down in mid-2024, and interim chief executive Samantha Johnson, the former managing director of Polestar Australia.  

Delvecchio brings extensive expertise in energy and transport in Australia and has more than two decades of senior leadership experience in business and advocacy. 

“The work of the EVC is as much about transport as it is about energy. Transport and energy are two of the most essential parts of our daily lives, and the decisions we make now will shape the future of our cities and communities,” Delvecchio says. 

“EVs now account for nearly one in ten new vehicles sold in Australia, reflecting the growing public confidence in cleaner, more affordable transport. It’s an exciting time for electric cars in Australia – sales are growing, the sector is maturing, and pivotal changes such as the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard are underway. 

“Australia is experiencing unprecedented investment in the EV sector across industry and government. This investment is about creating sustainable transport and positioning us to be a global leader in EV adoption, manufacturing, and innovation. 

“I recognise that the road to broader EV adoption is long, but with the right policies, partnerships, and plans in place, we can accelerate progress. The Electric Vehicle Council has made significant strides in advocating for cleaner, cost-effective transport.  

“I’d like to acknowledge Behyad Jafari and Samantha Johnson, who have been instrumental in advancing Australia’s EV industry and the electrification of transport. I’m committed to building on this momentum to make EVs more accessible and affordable for Australians,” she says  

“Julie brings a unique combination of expertise, passion, and vision to the EVC at a crucial time for the electric vehicle industry. Her ability to unite government, industry, and communities will accelerate EV adoption, boost infrastructure, and create jobs,”  says EVC chair Chau Le.

“I’m looking forward to working with Julie in her new role as CEO of the Electric Vehicle Council. Thanks to our overdue reforms, Australians now have more choices of cleaner, cheaper-to-run vehicles, and the EVC has played a key role in championing that shift,” says Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen.