Pump pain signals EV gain

Petrol prices have hit their highest in 18 months, expected to push interest in EVs.

“It’s never been a better time to buy an EV,” says Drive Electric chair Mark Gilbert who expects price rises at the pump will trigger even more EV enquiries.

Petrol costs about $2.36 for 91 octane and around $2.42 for 95 octane, while the electricity equivalent varies from about 24 cents to 40c a litre depending on the electricity supplier and plan, Gilbert explains.

EV enquiries have already stepped up following the Government’s announcement of a Clean Car Discount or rebate part of the “feebate” applying from July 1 and the fee aspect for polluting cars scheduled to take effect from January 1 next year.

People have rushed to take advantage of EV rebates of up to $8625 for new and $3450 for secondhand electrics and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

Gilbert says much will depend as well on penalties due to apply next year, and whether continuing shipping issues mean EV dealers get the models needed.

He points to the prices of some EVs like Tesla reducing too, and new EV models like the Peugeot e-2008 arriving here.

“With the incentives it makes sense to at least have a look at EVs.”