The Motor Traders Association of NSW (MTA NSW) is encouraged by the release of the National Electric Vehicle Strategy as a key step towards greater adoption of EVs in Australia but warns there is still a lot to do if mass adoption is to become a reality.

MTA NSW believes there are several items within the strategy that require detailed thought and rapid action to allow Australia to catch up with countries leading the EV adoption charge and increase the value of Australia to EV manufacturers.

NSW and Australia’s road infrastructure as well as maintenance and supply systems need significant improvements and updates.

Specialist training in EV and battery maintenance for mechanics is critical to avoid workplace safety dangers and driver risks. The MTA NSW notes that training only receives a single dot point of recognition in section 3.3 of the Strategy.

This training needs to be rolled out quickly and efficiently in a manner that is hands-on for the mechanics with state-of-the-art equipment to keep up with the rapid development of EVs.

Consumers need to know that they have flexibility in the quality maintenance of their vehicles for years after purchase.

“While we applaud the release of the strategy, the reality is that NSW, Australia’s largest state by population, is still not ready for a major influx of electric vehicles,” MTA NSW chief executive Stavros Yallouridis says.

“We need to see the plans for improving the underlying infrastructure to support electric vehicles. This includes having a comprehensive plan to reskill our current workforce, retool the thousands of small businesses that service and repair our vehicles and improve the automotive industry’s training through hands-on specialist training.

“To do anything less puts the transformation of the state fleet at risk and risks Australia’s plan to reduce carbon emissions and meet our international obligations.”