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Big SA support for electric cars: RAA

Almost eight in 10 South Australian motorists would consider buying an electric car, despite only a quarter having ever driven one, new data from the RAA shows.

Oct 15, 2021, updated Oct 15, 2021
Photo: Tony Lewis/InDaily

Photo: Tony Lewis/InDaily

A recent RAA survey of 550 South Australian drivers found the majority – 78 per cent – said they would consider purchasing an electric car, with the motoring group crediting growing concerns about greenhouse gas emissions and looming deadlines for the sale of fossil fuelled vehicles for the surge in demand.

Despite the strong interest, only 25 per cent of drivers reported having ever driven an electric vehicle.

“These vehicles are at the forefront of discussions being had around reducing greenhouse gas emissions, so it’s no surprise motorists are weighing them up,” RAA spokeswoman Kerry Bowles said.

“Governments around the world are also setting deadlines for the sale of new fossil fuelled vehicles in coming years, and with more EV models being produced it’s no wonder drivers are considering their buying options going forward.”

It comes as the State Government pushes to introduce a controversial two-cent per kilometre road user charge for plug-in hybrid vehicles and a 2.5-cent charge for electrical vehicles by 2027 to ensure electric vehicle owners “contribute to the upkeep of our roads into the future”.

The Government in August announced it would incentivise the purchase of low-emissions vehicles by introducing a $3000 subsidy for up to 6000 fully-electric cars, should its electric vehicle levy Bill pass parliament.

Bowles said electric vehicle sales were on the rise, prompting the RAA to launch a range of household “fast charging outlets”.

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“For long-lasting and widespread adoption of renewable energy, everyone from governments to individuals and corporations has a role to play – including the RAA,” she said.

Just 6900 electric cars were sold in Australia last year, representing 0.7 per cent of new car sales.

Only 412 electric vehicles were sold in South Australia in 2019, according to the Electric Vehicle Council.

However, SA has the second-highest number of EV purchases per 10,000 car sales (61) in Australia, behind only the ACT (83).

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