Call to delay CCD action
The incoming government is being called upon by a group of electric vehicle (EV) advocates to delay any changes to clean car policies until at least the middle of next year.
National and Act have pledged to ditch the clean car discount (CCD) with the former previously saying it would get rid of the feebate scheme by the end of this year, although the protracted coalition negotiations may now affect that timing.
The Better New Zealand Trust, which is a member of the Global EV Alliance, has written to Prime Minister-in-waiting Christopher Luxon urging him to push back those plans or risk “unfair outcomes” for dealers and consumers.
Rob Birnie, from the trust, says the CCD is working beyond all expectations to accelerate the country’s transition to clean transport and should be kept in place.
“If any changes are to be made, whether that’s removing the scheme entirely, or altering funding processes, the public needs to be given a chance to have their say and a clear timeline that is not impacted by the time taken to swear in the new government,” he explains.
“People are making decisions right now on car purchases not knowing if they will have to pay a fee or will be eligible for a subsidy by the time their car is delivered.
“This uncertainty is hurting New Zealanders and our transition to EVs. Any changes should be delayed until at least July 1, 2024, to give people and businesses fair notice and remove uncertainty.”
Birnie adds in the trust’s letter to Luxon that it hopes the new government will implement policies to accelerate New Zealand's transition to clean transport.
He says if any alterations are to be made to the CCD, the trust recommends a public consultation period to enable the people the government represents to provide feedback on any changes.
“Delaying any action until July will give the government time to properly consider the transition period and to consult with stakeholders,” Birnie tells Luxon.
“It will mean New Zealand businesses and car buyers have certainty about what is going to happen well in advance and can plan accordingly. A six-month delay is the fair and practical option.”
