Greater Wellington Regional Council begins move to electric vehicles

The Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC) today added the first fully electric car to its vehicle fleet, on the same day transport Minister Simon Bridges announced an extensive package of measures to increase the uptake of electric vehicles in New Zealand.

GWRC Chair Chris Laidlaw said there was increasing interest in electric vehicles across the country, and the Government's announcement provides strong support for those considering electric vehicles.

"The measures announced by the Minister send a strong signal to Wellingtonians and fleet owners to move towards a better transport future.  We look forward to working with the Government on developing the opportunities outlined today," Chris Laidlaw said.

Chris Laidlaw said GWRC's move to electric vehicles was consistent with the Council's role in environmental protection.  "41 percent of GWRC's in-house greenhouse gas emissions come from our vehicle fleet.  Given our transport and environmental role, it's important we lead by example.

"Our new vehicle, a Nissan Leaf, produces 80 percent less emissions than a petrol car.  The lower running costs for electric vehicles are also very compelling.  As council vehicles come up for replacement, we'll look to replace those with partially or fully electric models", said Chris Laidlaw.

To help promote the uptake of electric vehicles, GWRC and the Wellington City Council are co-hosting an electric vehicle symposium "The Future Is Electric" in Wellington on 27 June.  Fleet managers and others interested in the future of transport are invited to hear from a range of international and local experts and can learn more at www.TheFutureIsElectric.co.nz