A coalition of representatives from the freight and transport industry has called on the Australian government to develop and implement a National Zero Emission Truck Strategy.
In an industry call, the Electric Vehicle Council, Australian Trucking Association, Heavy Vehicle Industry Association, and the Australian Hydrogen Council urged the government for support that goes beyond light vehicles, which is the focus of the recently launched National Electric Vehicle Strategy.
While the new commitment to a Fuel Efficiency Standard marks a significant step forward for Australia, trucks and logistics will be left behind in the country’s progress towards decarbonisation if the government policy is not expanded, the group argued.
The industry representatives called the government to sign a global memorandum of understanding on zero-emission trucks that sets a clear climate ambition for medium and heavy vehicles.
They also called for regulatory barriers, such as width and axle mass limits, for zero-emission trucks, to increase vehicle model supply; further government investment in electric recharging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructures for trucks; and a purchase price incentive program designed for trucks and logistics.
The coalition also highlighted the need to fund and implement an upskilling and reskilling plan to ensure the preparedness of the workforce to transition to a zero-emission fleet.
The freight and logistics transport sector in Australia is currently responsible for over 38 per cent of the country’s transport emissions.
However, despite having a legislated commitment to net zero emissions, no plan is yet in place for emissions from road freight transport.
“Freight is a big part of Australia’s decarbonisation journey with unique challenges. It’s essential for this industry to have dedicated policy support that would enable retailers, vehicle manufacturers, transport service providers and owner-drivers to make the transition to zero emissions delivery,” said Alexandra Kelly, zero-emissions delivery lead at IKEA Australia.
IKEA Australia has expressed its support for the industry call as the first home-furnishing retailer in Australia to use EVs for deliveries.
