Summary
– Australia’s peak electric vehicle lobby group is getting a new CEO, with the former chief executive stepping down
– Former head of Polestar Australia announced as interim CEO, with experience in launching an automotive brand in Australia
– The Senate recently passed Australia’s fuel-efficiency standard, expected to increase the number of electric vehicle imports
– Outgoing CEO Behyad Jafari proud of achievements and confident in Australia’s transition to low-emission transport
– More than 87,000 electric cars sold in Australia in 2021, making up 7.2% of all new vehicles
Article
Australia’s peak electric vehicle lobby group will soon have a new leader as its current chief executive, Behyad Jafari, plans to step down from the role. The former head of Polestar Australia, Samantha Johnson, has been announced as the interim CEO just one day after finishing her work with the Swedish EV manufacturer. These changes come shortly after the Senate passed Australia’s fuel-efficiency standard, expected to increase the number of electric vehicles imported into the country from next year. Jafari expressed pride in the council’s accomplishments over his eight years and believes Australia’s transition to low-emission transport is on track.
Jafari emphasized the importance of an electric fleet for a sustainable and prosperous Australia, noting that the passage of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standards into law marked a significant milestone for the industry. He felt it was an appropriate time for him to step aside and make way for a new leader to continue building the council and the industry’s future. The appointment of Samantha Johnson as interim CEO was praised by Jafari, citing her experience in launching an automotive brand in Australia. Johnson recently left her role at Polestar Australia and is expected to lead the Electric Vehicle Council until a permanent chief executive is recruited.
The Electric Vehicle Council played a key role in advocating for the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard, which aims to reduce emissions across vehicle fleets starting in January. The standard includes targets to cut emissions from new passenger cars by 60% and new commercial vehicles and large four-wheel drives by 50% by 2029. The push for greater fuel efficiency aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. With over 87,000 new electric cars sold in Australia last year, comprising 7.2% of all new vehicles, the shift towards electric vehicles is becoming more pronounced.
The leadership transition at the Electric Vehicle Council comes at a pivotal time for the industry, with increasing momentum towards sustainable transport options. Johnson’s experience in the automotive sector and her previous role at Polestar Australia are expected to bring valuable insights and leadership to the council. The support provided by Jafari until July ensures a smooth transition and continuity in the council’s advocacy efforts. As Australia looks towards a future with a more electric-powered transportation system, the council’s role in promoting and facilitating this transition will be crucial.
The ongoing efforts to promote electric vehicles and improve fuel efficiency in Australia are part of a broader global trend towards sustainable transportation. The shift towards electric vehicles not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also promotes energy security and independence. With the future of transportation increasingly relying on electric power, the work of organizations like the Electric Vehicle Council plays a vital role in driving policy changes and supporting the growth of the electric vehicle market. The leadership changes within the council signal a new chapter in advancing the adoption of electric vehicles in Australia and shaping the future of transportation in the country.
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