New research shows that South Australians would be less likely to make the switch to an electric vehicle if the government proceeds with its plan to copy the Victorian Labor Government’s EV Tax.
The Australia Institute’s survey of a representative sample of 599 South Australians found 69 per cent South Australians agree that the government introducing a Road User Charge would make them less likely to purchase an EV.
It also found that 11 per cent say their next car will be an EV while almost a third (31 per cent) say their next car may be an EV.
The research also found there is strong support for incentives to reduce the upfront cost of EVs, with 72 per cent of South Australians in support of the government reducing the cost of EVs through subsidies and/or stamp duty waivers.
“Many South Australians are considering making the switch to an electric car, but the state government’s proposed EV Tax will pull the handbrake on that enthusiasm,” said Noah Schultz-Byard, SA Director at The Australia Institute.
“Our research shows that the vast majority of South Australians want more EVs on the road, not less, because they are considered to be good for the climate, health and the environment.”
Victoria has faced heavy criticism with the introduction of its EV tax earlier this year, while New South Wales has delayed its proposed road user tax for six years or until EVs make up 30 per cent of sales.
Under South Australia’s proposed tax a 2.5-cent/km charge would apply to zero-emission cars and hydrogen vehicles and a 2.0-cent/km charge would apply to plug-in hybrid electric cars.
“Incentives to reduce the upfront cost of an EV, such as subsidies or stamp duty waivers, are very popular among South Australian voters across the political spectrum,” Mr Schultz-Byard said.
“South Australia is leading the nation with its adoption of wind and solar power, but those efforts will be badly undermined if the government moves ahead with its EV Tax”
