Electric vehicles are still relatively expensive but a trial to help them power the national grid in times of need could see owners being paid. That could make them a lot more attractive.
A switch to electric transport is one of New Zealand’s key climate strategies. It will increase demand on the national grid, but might also help increase renewable electricity generation.
Plans to reduce emissions quickly are seductive but can stall. Climate initiatives should end dependence on fossil energy and pursue a path towards a more just and equitable society.
Democratic candidates are keen to burnish their climate credentials by calling for grand electric vehicle plans. But there are both economic and political reasons for going slowly.
Elon Musk’s latest venture has been met with confusion and ridicule. But drawing inspiration from science fiction for new technology should go beyond simplistic futurist fantasies.
Electric cars gets lots of attention, but in the developing world, electric two-wheelers have the potential to spread quickly – if batteries continue to improve on performance and cost.
In New Zealand, where more than 80% of electricity is renewable, the carbon footprint of electric cars is 62% lower than that of fossil cars. But their lithium battery has other environmental impacts.
Surprise findings have revealed that Australia’s cars are getting less fuel efficient. This is bad news for the hip-pockets of motorists - and for the climate.
Climate journalism can play an important role in painting the picture of a post-carbon economy. It should start by encouraging collective action and a sense of empowerment for everyday people.
Despite the overwhelming evidence that electric vehicle technology can deliver huge benefits, misinformation continues to muddy debate. Let’s look at the facts.
New Zealand has proposed new fuel standards, along with a consumer rebates for cleaner cars – paid for by higher costs for high-polluting cars – to cut its rising transport emissions.
Electric cars are hot, yet their global market penetration remains less than 0.5% of all vehicles. Research points the way to key questions to ask when building new markets.