December 2023

Despite the Australian Government rejecting calls for electric car mandates, the sector is witnessing significant developments, such as Jolt's campaign with Polestar to tackle EV range anxiety and farmers demonstrating the viability of EVs in remote areas. Volvo's CEO reports strong electric car orders, countering concerns about EV demand. In the realm of infrastructure, Viva Energy (Shell) plans to offer premium EV charging in NSW, and a record was set by an EV enthusiast who charged around Australia in just 10 days. Personal accounts, like the lessons learned from driving an EV in Australia for three years, provide insightful perspectives. The financial sector is also taking notice, with PEP investing $250 million in an EV charging firm that started in a Sydney garage. Interestingly, e-bikes are significantly reducing oil demand, overshadowing electric vehicles in this regard. In the entertainment and corporate sphere, Tesla's removal of the Disney app amidst Elon Musk's feud with Disney CEO Bob Iger adds a twist to the narrative. Meanwhile, NRMA urges proper etiquette at EV chargers during busy periods like Christmas. New model launches, such as the 2024 Polestar 4 electric SUV and the Renault Kangoo E-Tech electric van, along with a surge in EV sales and a doubling of fast-charging sites, indicate a robust market. However, concerns like 'range anxiety' in Australia's far north pose challenges to widespread adoption.