Mercury welcomes government’s EV initiative

The government’s commitment requiring its agencies to purchase EVs for their fleets is a welcome tangible step towards New Zealand’s decarbonisation.

So says Mercury chief executive Vince Hawksworth says, adding his voice to that of Drive Electric in praising the move under the government’s climate change emergency announcement, but also seeking further action.

Mercury supports the implementation of vehicle emissions and/or fuel efficiency standards as a priority; a ‘clean car’ feebate scheme and a ban on fossil fuel used vehicle imports as soon as possible.

“This positive government announcement is an important signal,” Hawksworth says. 

“It will edge New Zealand further towards the tipping point for transport electrification, New Zealand’s greatest opportunity for decarbonisation.”

Businesses have been transitioning their fleets and the government is making the change, but much more remains to be done if New Zealand is to progress towards its target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, Hawksworth adds.

“Our hope is that this is the catalyst for further action; our belief is that it will be.

“Further urgent action is needed.”

Hawksworth says a transport transition to electricity will not only benefit air quality but increase demand for secure, renewable sources of energy that will encourage the investment needed to move the country towards the government’s 100% renewable electricity target.