A national group of clean energy advocates are bringing solar cars and bikes to a show at Logan Central Community Centre this weekend.
Aside from taking people for rides in solar cars, there’s an underlying mission to convince the state government it can commit to ambitious zero emmissions vehicle policies.
Supported by the Australian Electric Vehicle Association and Tesla Owners Club, the Logan Electric Vehicle Experience offers a chance to see cutting edge electric vehicles up close, with electric vehicle owners on hand to answer questions and offer test rides in their cars.
There will be a range of vehicles to choose from, from more affordable city runabouts to high performance Teslas.
“This event is a great chance to ask all of your questions about electric vehicles from someone who has done it. And without any sales pitch from a car dealer,” event organiser Stephanie Gray said.
‘With petrol tipped to reach $2 per litre before Christmas, many people are looking at how they can save money. Electric vehicles are cheaper to run than petrol vehicles, and they’re clean and quieter.”
“EVs can run on solar and wind power which is good for our climate,” she said.
The event coincides with the Queensland Government’s development of a new zero emissions vehicle strategy, which Solar Citizens say will be vital to growing uptake of electric cars.
Waterford resident Paul Casbolt and his wife have decided that their next car will be electric.
“There are many reasons to own an EV, including the ability to recharge at home from our solar PV,” Paul Casbolt said.
“Switching to an EV will allow us to benefit from lower maintenance costs, reduce emissions and enjoy the electric driving experience.”
Policy uncertainty and cost are the main challenges he thinks will need to be overcome to grow EV uptake.
“The biggest barriers to switching to a zero emissions vehicle in Australia are the low Government support for EVs, combined with uncertain policies and the relative high purchase prices,” he said.
