Video: April brings new EV era

As EV demand surges amid the full Clean Car Programme launch on April 1, Drive Electric has introduced a website enabling people to search and compare all new EVs on the market.

“In New Zealand right now there are more than 70 models of new EVs available, and we expect the arrival of more over the coming 12 months,” says Drive Electric chair Mark Gilbert.

“New Zealand has also already seen the arrival of its first electric ute, by LDV.

“EV registrations are up 55% over the last year. And every day more New Zealanders are considering the shift to EVs,” he explains.

“EVs can be fuelled for the equivalent of 30-40c per litre of petrol. Naturally, pure EVs produce no emissions. The shift makes sense.”

Gilbert says the Government’s Clean Car Programme starts on April 1, “so we only expect demand to accelerate from there”.

“Of the models on our website, more than 40 are eligible for the new incentive,” he adds.

Discounts on new zero-emissions vehicles can be up to $8625 for new vehicles and $3450 for used imports.

“As more consumers explore e-mobility, we needed to enhance our website to really support that decision-making,” says Gilbert, adding the site offers information for anyone in the market for a new or used EV, whether for home or business.

 The new Drive Electric website includes a new filterable search tool for all available new EV models in New Zealand which will allow consumers to discover and compare EV models that suit their budgets and lifestyle, an industry directory of businesses within the e-mobility ecosystem, and a new e-mobility resources section to help people make informed decisions on every stage of the EV journey.

“We are delighted to support Drive Electric with the development of this new EV resource,” says Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) chief executive Andrew Caseley.

“It is very complementary to our priorities at EECA and in particular encouraging the adoption of low emissions vehicles.

 “Transport makes up around half of the country’s energy-related emissions, and EVs will be a key ingredient in tackling this,” he says.

“It is clear that as EV technology continues to advance with cars themselves, at home charging, and public charging infrastructure, they will only become an increasingly attractive driver option from a cost and ease perspective too. “

Visit www.driveelectric.org.nz or click here for more information.