Misinformation about electric vehicles (EVs), charging infrastructure and battery technology is slowing EV adoption in Victoria, according to a new parliamentary inquiry examining how electric vehicles can be better integrated into the state’s energy system.
A report released by the Victorian Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee found persistent misconceptions around driving range, charging access, battery lifespan, fire safety and electricity grid impacts were affecting consumer confidence and delaying uptake.
The inquiry produced 109 findings and 40 recommendations, including calls for the Victorian Government to launch a public education campaign aimed at addressing EV misinformation and improving public understanding of the technology.
The report comes as EV adoption continues to grow nationally. More than 16 per cent of all new vehicles sold in Australia during April 2026 were fully electric, although that remains below the global average of 25 per cent.
Range anxiety remains a key concern
The inquiry found concerns around vehicle range and charging access remain among the biggest barriers to EV adoption, despite evidence showing modern EVs are capable of significantly longer travel distances than earlier-generation models.
The Committee heard that many modern EVs now offer driving ranges between 400 and 500 kilometres, with some exceeding 600 kilometres on a single charge.
The inquiry also heard that most Victorian drivers travel around 40 kilometres per day, meaning many EV owners would only need to charge their vehicle once a week.
Ross De Rango of Vehicle Charging Solutions Australia told the inquiry charging infrastructure across regional Victoria was already supporting longer-distance travel.
“The distance from, say, Orbost to Cann River is about 75 kilometres. The typical EV has a range of hundreds of kilometres, and in both Cann River and Orbost there are fast chargers. So, if you are a driver from Melbourne, or indeed if you are a driver from Orbost and you are driving back and forth on that route, there are fast chargers conveniently spaced,” he said.
They also noted that around 80 per cent of EV charging currently occurs at home, typically overnight.
Fire safety and battery lifespan myths addressed
The inquiry found concerns about EV fires continue to influence public perception, despite evidence suggesting electric vehicles are significantly less likely to catch fire than internal combustion engine vehicles.
Experts told the Committee that public concern was often shaped by confusion between electric vehicles and smaller battery-powered devices such as e-scooters and e-bikes, which operate under different safety standards.
Battery lifespan and resale value were also identified as common misconceptions.
The report noted that EV batteries are increasingly expected to last between 15 and 20 years, with many retaining between 80 and 95 per cent of their capacity after extended use.
Jo Oddie from the Australian Electric Vehicle Association told the inquiry battery durability was exceeding expectations.
“What we are learning with great news and great relief is that batteries are actually outlasting the bodies of the cars. Research out of Dalhousie University in Canada by Professor Jeff Dahn has shown that batteries are in great condition for up to more than 200,000 kilometres,” she said.
The inquiry also heard Australia’s battery recycling sector was already expanding to support future EV demand.
Association for the Battery Recycling Industry Chief Executive Officer Katharine Hole said the industry was already contributing significantly to the national economy.
“The sector has a strong record in lead-acid battery materials recovery. In excess of 90 per cent of batteries are recycled. The sector is rapidly growing, especially in lithium battery recycling and reuse. Overall the sector contributes an estimated $2.1 billion annually to the national economy, supporting over 19,000 jobs. By 2050 it is projected to contribute $6.9 billion to the economy and 34,000 jobs,” she explained.
Inquiry highlights opportunities for the electricity grid
The report also challenged concerns that increased EV adoption would place unsustainable pressure on the electricity grid.
Instead, the inquiry found technologies such as vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid charging could strengthen grid reliability by allowing EVs to store excess renewable energy and return electricity to the grid during peak demand periods.
Julie Karel from the Monash Energy Institute told the inquiry coordinated charging could reduce strain on the energy network.
“Charging aligned with periods of high renewable supply during the day and low demand overnight can halve future peak demand, reduce system costs, improve reliability and increase the utilisation of renewables,” she said.
The Committee recommended the Victorian Government support additional trials, research programs and demonstration projects focused on bidirectional charging technologies to improve industry and consumer confidence.
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