Greens champion EVs

The government can show leadership by transitioning New Zealand’s vehicle fleet to renewable electricity when a contract to supply limousines for VIPs goes to tender next month, says the Green Party. “This is an opportunity for the government to lead by choosing low-emission, electric cars,” says Julie Anne Genter, the Greens’ transport spokesperson. “Some electric vehicles [EVs], such as the Tesla Model S, exceed specifications needed for luxury limousines.They are cleaner, safer and quieter. Genter says they may also be cheaper. “The list price of the current limousines purchased in 2011 is higher than the list price of an equivalent EV. This is an opportunity for the government to lead by example, take action on climate and save taxpayers’ money. “The UK’s Conservative government recently announced its intention to purchase 150 EVs across its fleet. The limousine it’s considering has a range of 425km, seats five, has a five-star safety rating and produces zero emissions at the tailpipe.National has so far taken no action to reduce emissions despite setting a target to reduce them by 2050.” The Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment, which manages government procurement, says the process is expected to take six months and replacement cars will be progressively rolled out in the second half of 2015.