In the face of rising fuel costs, many residents of Melbourne’s outer suburbs are making the switch to electric vehicles (EVs). Sudeep Thomas, a resident of Tarneit, is one such individual who opted for an electric car, driven by the escalating expenses associated with traditional fuel-powered vehicles. The increasing popularity of EVs in Melbourne’s outer suburbs is not just a trend but a testament to the changing dynamics of transportation in the region.
The shift towards electric vehicles is not merely a response to rising fuel prices but also an acknowledgment of the environmental benefits these vehicles offer. With zero emissions and a reduced carbon footprint, EVs represent a sustainable and eco-friendly mode of transportation, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Thomas used to commute 120 kilometres daily from Tarneit to Mulgrave, spending approximately $30 on petrol, excluding tolls. By transitioning to an EV, he not only reduced his daily fuel costs but also leveraged his rooftop solar to charge his vehicle, slashing his monthly running expenses to just $50. “Financially, it’s a game-changer,” Thomas remarked, further emphasising his belief in the potential of battery-operated cars.
Beyond the immediate financial savings, the long-term benefits of owning an EV are manifold. Reduced maintenance costs, longevity of electric batteries, and the decreasing costs of electricity compared to petrol make EVs a wise investment. Additionally, with governments worldwide offering incentives and tax breaks for EV owners, the overall cost of ownership becomes even more attractive.
Thomas isn’t alone in his enthusiasm for EVs. He observed an uptick in electric vehicles in his neighbourhood, a trend supported by data from the Australian Automobile Association. For instance, the number of registered EVs in the Tarneit area (postcode 3029) surged from 37 in 2021 to 344 in January 2023. Similarly, the Wyndham City Council reported a nearly seven-fold increase in EV registrations during the same period.
This growth isn’t confined to just one suburb. Melbourne’s outer suburbs, especially in the west, are witnessing a significant uptick in EV adoption. Factors such as increased awareness, community-driven initiatives, and local EV showcases have played a pivotal role in driving this change. As infrastructure develops and more charging stations emerge, this trend is only expected to accelerate.
Ross De Rango, head of energy and infrastructure at the Electric Vehicle Council, highlighted the suitability of EVs for outer suburb residents. With a majority of standalone homes, these areas offer convenient charging solutions. Moreover, the longer distances travelled by outer suburb residents amplify the cost savings of EVs.
Furthermore, the lifestyle and housing structures in the outer suburbs complement EV ownership. Standalone homes often come with garages or dedicated parking spaces, allowing homeowners to install private charging stations. This not only ensures convenience but also adds to the property’s value, making it a win-win for homeowners.
De Rango acknowledged the challenges posed by the high costs of new technologies, emphasising the need to ensure inclusivity during the transition to EVs. Accelerating the second-hand EV market and encouraging corporate fleets to adopt electric vehicles can help drive prices down.
Marion Terrill, director of the Grattan Institute’s transport and cities program, pointed out that supply constraints, rather than demand, are the primary hurdle. She advocated for revising Australia’s parallel imports law to allow a broader range of affordable EVs into the country, citing New Zealand’s thriving second-hand EV market as a model. By addressing these barriers and creating a conducive environment for EV adoption, Australia can position itself as a leader in sustainable transportation.
The federal government has signalled its intent to introduce a vehicle emissions standard, potentially paving the way for more affordable EV imports. Chris Jones, president of the Australian Electric Vehicles Association, urged swift action, noting Australia’s lag in EV adoption compared to global counterparts.
In addition to policy changes, there’s a need for public awareness campaigns to educate the masses about the benefits of EVs. Workshops, seminars, and community-driven initiatives can play a crucial role in dispelling myths and addressing concerns related to EVs. As the public becomes more informed and the benefits of EVs become more evident, the transition to electric vehicles will become a natural progression for many Australians.
