Kia Australia Calls for National Charging Network to Support Electric Cars
Kia Australia Calls for National Charging Network to Support Electric Cars
Will Australia’s government take action and implement a national charging program to drive the adoption of electric vehicles across the country?
Kia Australia has expressed concerns about the lack of financial incentives for electric cars but does support government-backed programs for EV adoption. CEO Damien Meredith emphasizes the need for a national charging program that will give consumers the confidence to purchase EVs. He also believes that a combination of electric and internal combustion engine vehicles will be present on Australian roads for at least another decade. Learn more about Kia’s plans for electrification and future models.
Kia Australia’s CEO, Damien Meredith, has expressed criticism regarding the absence of financial incentives for electric cars in the country. However, the brand fully supports government-backed programs aimed at promoting electric vehicle (EV) adoption. At the recent launch of the Kia EV9, Meredith highlighted the importance of establishing a national charging network to eliminate any disparities in access to charging infrastructure.
Meredith believes that a comprehensive charging program across Australia would give consumers the confidence to embrace EVs and make the transition from internal combustion engine vehicles. He stated, ‘What I would like to see is a full commitment to a charging program around Australia. I know there’s variables around that, but I think if we did that, it will give everyone the confidence to move forward with purchase and give them the confidence it takes.’ He emphasized the concerns of potential EV buyers who fear being caught out without access to charging infrastructure. A national charging program would address these concerns and provide a reliable network for all Australians.
Furthermore, Meredith stressed the need for a multi-solution approach to electrification in order to reduce Australia’s emissions. He anticipates that various vehicle technologies will coexist on Australian roads for at least another decade. While Kia has committed to its global electrification plan, known as Plan S, Meredith acknowledges that it will take time for electric cars to dominate the market. He said, ‘But the reality is, the pragmatic aspects of it are that in Australia, there’s still going to be a mix of sales and a mix of vehicles on the road for I think at least another decade. My view is 2034 will probably be when we see more electric cars than what there is at this point.’
Meredith also highlighted the importance of government support in driving EV adoption. He suggested that the Australian Federal Government should implement a blanket approach to incentivize EV sales and ensure a smooth transition towards sustainable mobility. With fuel excise revenue declining, the government has a unique opportunity to invest in EV infrastructure and promote emission reduction through electrification.
Kia’s global Plan S strategy demonstrates the brand’s commitment to electrification. The company plans to launch 15 EV models by 2027 and achieve 1 million annual EV sales by 2026. By 2030, Kia aims to have electrified vehicles, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids, account for 55% of its volume. To support its ambitious goals, Kia will establish its first dedicated EV factory in South Korea in 2024. Additionally, the production line of its Gwangmyeong factory will be converted for EV production, with the first models set to roll off the line next year. Kia envisions utilizing innovative technologies, such as a ‘3D virtual reality process’ and unmanned, automated facilities, in its new EV factory.
- Kia Australia criticizes the absence of financial incentives for electric cars but supports government programs for EV adoption.
- CEO Damien Meredith calls for a national charging program to boost consumer confidence in EV purchase.
- Meredith believes a mix of electric and internal combustion engine vehicles will be present in Australia for the next decade.
- Kia’s Plan S strategy includes heavy investment in electrification and the production of 15 EV models by 2027.
- Kia aims to achieve 1 million annual EV sales by 2026 and expects electrified vehicles to account for 37% of its overall sales.
Kia Australia’s CEO Damien Meredith has called for the establishment of a national charging program to address concerns and boost consumer confidence in electric vehicle adoption. He believes that a multi-solution approach to electrification is necessary, as a mix of electric and internal combustion engine vehicles will be prevalent on Australian roads for the foreseeable future. Despite the absence of significant financial incentives, Kia remains committed to its global electrification plan, Plan S, which includes the launch of 15 EV models by 2027. The company aims to achieve 1 million annual EV sales by 2026 and expects electrified vehicles to constitute a significant portion of its overall sales. With plans to build its first dedicated EV factory and convert existing facilities for EV production, Kia is actively pursuing its vision for a sustainable and electrified future.
