Minns promises more fast-chargers and electric trucks in revamped EV policy | Australia news
Developing electric trucks and building more stations to charge them will be key pillars of the province’s renewed electric vehicle strategy designed to ease the pressure of rising fuel costs.
The NSW government unveiled its 2026 EV strategy on Tuesday in a bid to reassure drivers hesitant to switch from increasingly expensive petrol cars.
Rolling out more fast charging stations in regional and remote areas to encourage EV use by out-of-towners will be one of the top priorities of the $100 million package.
Electric vehicles currently account for around 15% of new car sales in NSW, but the prospect of accelerating purchases during the fuel crisis has further fueled the need for more infrastructure.
The government says switching from a gasoline-powered vehicle to an EV could cut fuel costs by up to $3,000 a year, or entirely if the home uses solar power, making the choice affordable for those fed up with the bowser.
“Families feel the pressure every time they fill up,” said NSW premier Chris Minns.
“This is about giving people a real alternative that is cheaper to run and, with this rollout, easier to access.”
In addition to fast chargers, curbside charging stations will also be built to help those who cannot charge at home, such as apartment dwellers.
Converting heavier vehicles to electric is another key element of the roadmap, as the government increases incentives for businesses to electrify their trucks.
The EV Fleets Incentive Program will be expanded to include medium-sized trucks as well as small trucks, and fleet operators will be able to apply for grants to electrify vehicles and install chargers.
The government will also invest in training 2,000 regional mechanics so rural drivers can have their vehicles serviced safely closer to home.
“Filling regional charging gaps, expanding support for heavy vehicle fleets and investing in workforce training are practical steps to get more Australians into electric vehicles sooner,” EV Council CEO Julie Delvecchio said.
The state program comes after the federal government launched a $20 million advertising campaign on Monday encouraging drivers to reduce fuel consumption by changing their driving habits.
