EV price reductions needed

Queenslanders wanting to switch to EVs and being deterred by their higher purchase price support having the State Government do more to help, a Solar Citizens poll reveals.

About 807 Queenslanders polled by market research firm Dynata shows 44% are interested in purchasing an EV as their next car, but price is the biggest barrier for 52% – including lower income respondents (A$40,000 or below).

“The data is telling us that Queenslanders are ready to get in the driver’s seat of a cleaner car, but the price is keeping them locked out,” Solar Citizens national director Ellen Roberts says.

“People know that EVs are cheaper to run and safer for the climate and our health, but they’re being let down by a State Government that’s lagging behind on clean transport.

“Unlike New South Wales, the ACT and other states, Queensland doesn’t offer any meaningful subsidies or policies to make cleaner cars more affordable for everyone.”

About 78% of Queenslanders polled support the Queensland Government reducing the costs of purchasing an EV through measures like waived stamp duty or subsidies.

“As the State Government gets ready to release its Zero Emissions Vehicle Strategy, now is the time to bring down those cost barriers for people and get more electric cars on Queensland roads,” Roberts says.

“It’s also an opportunity to avoid other states’ missteps, as half of those surveyed said an EV tax would make them less likely to buy a cleaner car.”

Just 10% of respondents cite range anxiety as the biggest barrier. Lower running and maintenance costs are considered the most appealing EV benefit, followed by the lack of tailpipe emissions.

“It’s great that the State Government is investing in important charging infrastructure but that’s not enough,” Roberts adds.

“These results show us that concerns about range anxiety and charging are outdated, the Government needs to lower the upfront costs so people can start saving money and lowering emissions.”