Although the termination of the Clean Car Discount did not create as pronounced an impact as its inception, with over 29,000 gas-guzzling vehicles purchased in the month preceding the enforcement of fees in April 2022, its influence on consumer behaviour and fleet emissions was substantial throughout its short-lived existence. Transport Minister Simeon Brown defended the government’s decision, citing the Clean Car Discount’s unaffordability when it provided $339 million more in discounts than fees collected. Brown emphasized that the cost of new EVs had decreased, highlighting the government’s plan to invest $257 million in constructing 10,000 EV chargers. Officials acknowledged the Clean Car Discount’s role in accelerating the shift towards low-emission vehicles, while also recognizing other contributing factors, such as rising petrol prices, the influx of affordable Chinese EV brands, and heightened awareness of climate change. Despite its cancellation, the Clean Car Standard remains in place, urging car importers to balance high-emission vehicles with lower-emitting ones or face penalties.

Source: Stuff February 08, 2024 16:28 UTC