Our analysis included an assessment of the cost comparison between an internal combustion engine vehicle and an electric vehicle. This shows that under current arrangements, an EV must travel a considerable distance per year to be cost-competitive with an ICE vehicle.

Guiding fleet transition

This project analysed the vehicle fleet and plant equipment, to provide a vehicle-by-vehicle assessment. Each vehicle was provided with a transition time frame, cost and replacement model. The transition plan offered each participating Council with a transition pathway for each vehicle in their fleet.

Key trends in electric vehicles and charging

Several trends were identified that are likely to have a significant impact on EAGA members’ ability to meet its emissions reduction goals associated with their fleet in the future, including:

• Greater range of vehicle types, including SUVs, utes, vans, as well as a wider range of sedans. Some vehicle classes, such as utes, are not commercially available and it may be several years before these can be purchased at a cost-competitive price.
• Lower-cost models, including those at around $35,000 in 2023/24, available in Australia.
• Long-range vehicles, with batteries capable of a 500km+ range.
• Greater access to faster chargers, with the number of fast chargers increasing rapidly over the last two years.
• Availability of battery electric plant equipment, such as backhoes, excavators etc.
• More vehicles capable of accessing ultra-fast charging (250kW to 350kW), allowing vehicles to be charged to 80% in less than 10 minutes.
• Vehicle to Grid (V2G) and Vehicle to Load (V2L) capable vehicles, whereby the energy in the vehicle’s battery can be used to supply the grid, the home or offer a 240v power outlet for tools or appliances.