Big year for Clean Cars

More than 57,000 EVs and hybrids were registered in the first year of the Government’s Clean Car Discount scheme, a 56% increase on the previous year.

The CCD scheme has been hailed a success by transport minister Michael Wood, saying it’s the most EVs and hybrids on record.

The scheme has also encouraged EVs and non-plug-in-hybrids to make up 20% of new passenger car sales in March/April 2022.

The CCD scheme provides a maximum rebate of $8625 to for low and zero emission new and used imports, with fees on higher emitting vehicles helping to fund the scheme.

“It’s great to see so many Kiwis embracing the opportunity to upgrade to cleaner, more environmentally friendly vehicles that will save them money, reduce our reliance on fuel and ensure they can play an active role in cutting emissions and responding to the climate emergency,” says Wood.

“Since the scheme came into force on 1 July 2021 there has been a 56% increase in the number of light-electric and non-plug-in hybrid vehicles registered in New Zealand, compared to the same period last year.

“The greatest growth has been in the new passenger electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle market, where the sales market share has jumped from 3% in 2020 to 8% in 2021 and 20% over March/April 2022,” he explains.

“As a result of the new scheme, New Zealand is now fast catching up with global market leaders.”

Climate change minister James Shaw says the CCD is making a significant contribution towards meeting the Government’s climate change targets.

“The Clean Car Discount Scheme is doing exactly what it was designed to do, which is to make cleaner vehicles a more realistic choice for people,” Shaw adds.

“The overall success of the scheme means that together New Zealanders are moving meaningfully towards climate friendly ways of getting around.

“The Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) the Government published last month will ensure lasting cuts to climate pollution across the economy, while making life better for everyone. The actions in the ERP will increase the number of zero emissions vehicles in our communities to at least 30% of the light fleet by 2035.”

Shaw says the CCD is making a huge contribution towards meeting that target.

The expanded Clean Car scheme, which took effect on April 1, has seen more than $18 million paid out in Clean Car rebates and at least $14 million in fees collected during the first two months.

A wider range of used and new fuel efficient, hybrid and electric vehicles are now eligible to receive a rebate, with the number of vehicles registered in April and May 2022 almost doubling to 14,000 as compared to the same period last year, according to the Motor Vehicle Register.