The Queensland Government is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable transportation by welcoming zero-emission heavy vehicles onto the state’s roads.
The Government recently unveiled a zero-emission heavy vehicle network map that identifies major freight routes within the state that can accommodate the heavier steer-axle weights of up to eight tonnes for electric trucks.
The initial focus of such routes is on the south-east corner of Queensland, from the New South Wales border near the Gold Coast to Bundaberg and west to Toowoomba and Warwick. This allows access to key supply chain links on which industry expects the highest initial demand for zero-emission heavy vehicles.
Queensland Transport Minister Bart Mellish hailed the move as putting the state “on the map as a leader in future electric truck manufacturing”.
“As transport is one of the main contributors to Queensland’s emissions, zero-emission heavy vehicles can make a significant contribution to meeting Queensland’s targets to reduce emissions by 30 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050,” Mellish said.
Queensland Energy Minister Mick de Brenni emphasised the importance of decarbonising heavy transport to reduce emissions across.
“I know all Queenslanders will welcome a future of locally manufactured electric trucks, because it means a creating a lasting legacy for the Australian vehicle manufacturing industry,” de Brenni said.
“The Miles Government is determined to decarbonise Queensland industries, increase Queensland’s manufacturing opportunities, and protect and create good jobs for Queenslanders.”
The network map is part of the Queensland Government’s evidence-based approach to reducing emissions, which studied potential impacts of increased zero-emission heavy vehicle weights on infrastructure while facilitating the energy transition. Further maps are planned as adoption grows.
Volvo Group Australia President and Chief Executive Officer Martin Merrick thanked the State Government and national regulators for enabling the company’s full range of electric trucks in Queensland. He confirmed the company can now proceed with plans to manufacture battery-electric trucks at its Wacol facility.
“This is a major win for Queenslanders,” Merrick said. “We have the green light to invest even further in Queensland manufacturing.”
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