According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) 2023 will be a significant year for policy development which sets the direction for decarbonisation of the light vehicle fleet.
The FCAI says it has advocated for a fuel efficiency standard for many years.
“We are optimistic that the Federal Government will take action in 2023 and introduce a standard that achieves the policy outcomes that lead to emission reductions while enabling Australians to drive the vehicles that they need and want,” FCAI chief executive Tony Weber says.
“The FCAI and its members will do all it can to promote the development of sound policy, based on solid data and in the context of the unique nature of the Australian market.”
Weber says beyond the fuel efficiency standard, a technology mix, infrastructure investment and behaviour change initiatives are needed to reduce emissions to create a cleaner fleet and ensure a sustainable automotive industry.
“We need to use the full range of low emission technologies that are available and affordable for the majority of Australians, not just those who can afford premium vehicles,” he says.
Weber says in 2023 the FCAI would continue its work on a broad range of issues that ultimately supported the needs of motorists and regulators.
“As vehicle technology develops beyond matters of safety and performance, the industry is dealing with the complexities of increased connectivity of vehicles to broader infrastructure and information networks,” he says.
“Other areas of focus include ports and logistics, design regulations and matters relating to future road user charges as fuel excise starts to fall with the increase of zero and low emission vehicles on our roads.
“The FCAI recognises there will be significant challenges and opportunities in the year ahead and will be working with government, consumers and our members to overcome the challenges and capitalise on the opportunities in a way that benefits our planet, industry and drivers,” he says.
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