Bridges: NZ ready for electric cars

Transport and energy minster Simon Bridges has reinforced his support for electric vehicles – and noted how ready the country is for them – as part of a speech to an energy industry conference this week.

Speaking to Downstream 2015, Bridges noted he was a strong supporter of the technology.

“ am a firm supporter of EVs, which offer the prospect of multiple benefits from reduced emissions, increased use of our renewables resource, improved fuel efficiency and reputational advancement as well,” Bridges said.

He noted the work the electric supply industry was already undertaking in the market.

“I know many of you are already doing work in this intriguing area, from Northpower who has been actively promoting EVs and recently completed a study showing its electricity network could easily handle tens of thousands of EVs charging overnight, to Mighty River Power recently announcing it will change around 70 per cent of its fleet to EVs or plug in hybrids over the next four years.”

He has asked for advice on what can be done to increase the EV uptake.

“I have tasked the Ministry of Transport to provide advice on whether the Government can play a role in facilitating early uptake of EVs and, if so, what options are available,” Bridges said.

“More broadly, together with the sector, I want to take every opportunity to promote New Zealand’s renewable advantage and expertise internationally.”