Elijah Brown

The NSW government announces the largest rollout of public kerbside EV chargers in Australia, with 671 charging ports at 391 sites funded at $4.1 million. Aimed at supporting EV drivers without offsite parking, the chargers range from 7kW to 75kW and will be installed in public areas. Companies like Jolt will offer free kerbside charging with advertising space. The initiative is part of a $209 million investment in EV infrastructure to make NSW the most EV-friendly state.

Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council welcomes former Polestar Australia head, Samantha Johnson, as interim CEO. Outgoing chief Behyad Jafari steps down after 8-year tenure, proud of paving the way for electric fleet adoption. Johnson's experience in launching automotive brands positions her well for the role. Her leadership comes as Australia passes new fuel-efficiency standards to boost EV imports. The council's push for sustainability sees progress with over 87,000 electric cars sold in Australia in 2021.

Smart, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, is launching two electric SUV models in Australia in 2024. The smart #1 and smart #3 will target the premium market with competitive pricing, offering up to 440 km of range. Partnering with LSH Auto, known for Mercedes-Benz distribution, Smart aims to meet the rising demand for EVs in Australia. Pre-orders begin in July for September deliveries, emphasizing a strategic move towards sustainable mobility.

China is considering a 25% tariff on US gas guzzlers in response to the US tariff on Chinese EVs, possibly signaling its first carbon border tax. This move aims to accelerate greener practices in the automotive industry and reduce carbon emissions. The potential tariff could push the global automotive industry towards 100% EV production, aligning with China's commitment to low-carbon development. Such measures could also incentivize legacy auto companies to focus on electric vehicles.

Elon Musk criticizes US EV tariffs as young Americans show openness to buying Chinese vehicles, with 76% under 40 considering them, despite privacy concerns. Joe Biden's 100% tariff on Chinese EVs to protect US automakers faces pushback. Tesla CEO Musk opposes tariffs, saying they distort the market. The generational divide is evident, as older age groups are less open to buying Chinese cars. Young Americans' interest in Chinese vehicles grows amid global market shifts and protectionist measures.

Australian mining giants BHP and Rio Tinto team up to fast track trials of large battery electric haul trucks in Pilbara. Trials to start in 2024 with CAT 793 trucks, followed by Komatsu 930 in 2026. Collaboration aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. BHP trials to be at Jimblebar Mine while sharing insights with Rio Tinto. Manufacturers Caterpillar and Komatsu to provide trucks. Vale also joins in Brazil. Push towards "real zero" emissions by Fortescue Metals adds competitive pressure.