When will the Australian Government subsidise electric vehicles?

Question

Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs) are now possible.

It is fairly straight forward to take a second hand car, replace the motor, gearbox, heater and fuel tank with an electric motor, electric heater and various controllers so that you can plug it in to 240v and drive it.

In fact, this part is not too expensive and can achieve performance BETTER than the original engine.

The problem is the batteries. $15k - $20k for lithium batteries. Lead batteries are much cheaper, but are heavier, not as environmentally friendly and cost more in the long run due to having to replace them more frequently.

I want to convert a car to a ZEV.

We should all convert a car to (or buy) a ZEV.

The government must subsidise the conversion of cars to (or purchase of) ZEVs.

Answer 1

As soon as they apologise for making petrol ones!!!

Answer 2

true.

Answer 3

Under WTO (world trade organisation) rules subsidising electric vehicles would be illegal and the US (as home of most polluting vehicle global corps) would put large retaliatory taxes on any Austrailan goods. (subsidising the US fossil fuel indstry seems to be exempt from this)

eg the EU insisting bio-fueld are sustainably produced  this speech from UK Minister of State for Transport Steven Ladyman MP  "If we are seen to be trying to create a protectionist system which is all about restricting imports of biofuels, we will be heading straight for the World Trade Organisation."

http://www.dft.gov.uk/press/speechesstat...

Answer 4

I reckon write to Kevin 07, think he is a good man and would consider that as an option.

Answer 5

When something needs a government subsidy to be profitable, it means it's not what the consumers want.

If it were what the consumers wanted, they'd be willing to pay enough for it to enable the producer to make a profit.

Be for it or be against it, just admit what you're proposing - government planners intruding upon the market to override the choices of the consumers.

Answer 6

I don't know but it's a good point to bring up. My cousins live in Australia but they never really said anything about it. Anyways, if you are really concerned about it, send a few emails or mails to the goverener or something, maybe he can think about it if it actually comes up. Remember: Only you can make a change. (along with a million other people)

Answer 7

Hope you're not holding your breath on that one!

Not going to happen any time soon. Check the below website to learn why.

I am doing my bit, by converting to supplemental HHO. Very easy to do, takes a few hrs to fit, with no modifications to existing engine needed. And at this time, water is relatively "free". Don't tell Kevin07 about this, will ya? He'll promptly put up the tax on water!