Shoalhaven City Council have expanded its fleet to include three totally electric vehicles. The new vehicles have joined Council’s leaseback vehicle list as part of a three-year trial towards a cost-effective, sustainable future.
The three Hyundai Kona’s aim to deliver better fuel economy, increased residual value and reduced servicing costs whilst also being more environmentally friendly.
Shoalhaven City Council Mayor Amanda Findley said the new electric cars will see the Shoalhaven take another step towards reaching their goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, through cost effective means.
“The vehicles are part of a trial to reduce costs to Council which then frees up more money for the community.” Clr Findley said.
“Electric vehicles are the way of the future, there’s nothing to fear. Our fleet vehicles are being used to collect data to make sure we are saving money. There are so many benefits to these vehicles including better fuel economy and reduced servicing.
“The kilometre range of these vehicles is amazing, I know I’ve got the security to be able to drive to Sydney, to Canberra and know I’m going to get home.”
“I often hear the criticism that electric vehicles run on coal. But the cost of coal power compared to petroleum is worth analysing as currently per 100km the actual cost is approximately half that of petrol and diesel.
“As Australian transitions to a less carbon intense future, less coal will be burned to make energy as cheaper, cleaner renewables come online. If the trial proves that the vehicles are more cost effective, that will be a win, win for the community.
“The electric vehicle fleet as small as it is helps Council to focus strategically to the future, many car manufacturers are taking strategic directions to phase out combustion engines in their domestic offering.
“Futuristic as it may seem, electric trucks and buses are already in development with a trial running here in Nowra. In the meantime, we will continue to see business as usual for many petrol and diesel fleet types.” Clr Findley said.
