‘Long-awaited’ changes welcome

The Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) has welcomed the introduction of the Land Transport (Clean Vehicle Standard) Amendment Bill (No 2), which is now out for public consultation.

The bill, introduced to parliament by Chris Bishop, Minister of Transport, outlines a number of proposed changes to the clean vehicle standard.

These include removing the weight adjustment from passenger and commercial vehicle targets, which VIA says will ensure a fairer and more transparent approach to setting carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction obligations.

Other changes are permitting the trading of credits between the new and used import sectors, in order to create greater flexibility for importers, and extending the lifespan of credits from three years to four to give businesses more certainty in managing compliance.

Greig Epps, VIA’s chief executive, says: “These changes were first signalled in the government’s 2024 review of the clean car standard and have been long awaited by the industry. 

“VIA has consistently advocated for these adjustments, as they help create a more workable framework that better reflects the realities of vehicle supply into New Zealand. 

“The removal of weight adjustment in particular has been a long-standing issue for our members.”

While recognising this progress, Epps, pictured, notes further work is still required around the clean vehicle regulations.

“The current penalty and target settings continue to place significant pressure on the industry, restricting supply and increasing costs for consumers,” he explains. 

“We look forward to further discussions with officials and the minister on how these settings can be refined to ensure regulations achieve their environmental goals while also supporting affordability and choice for New Zealand families and businesses.”