autoevolution
 

Green Cars Become Politic Weapons

It was only a matter of time until green vehicles moved from the automotive world to the realm of politics and that first step was taken in Australia, a country who prepares for federal elections on August 21.

Perhaps for the first time in history, funding, incentives and other means of promoting green motoring have become electoral tools in the hands of local politicians.

In a country which aims to become one of the leaders of green cars market, the current shadow minister for innovation, industry, science and research, Sophie Mirabella, warns that, if a coalition government is elected, it would cut AU$278 million from the Labor government’s Green Car Innovation Fund (GCIF).

“The Liberals will slash funding for the Green Car Innovation Fund by 50 percent each year for the next four years,” senator Kim Carr told GoAuto.

Richard Reilly, head of the Federal of Automotive Parts Manufacturers (FAPM) warns that if the cuts become reality, the Australian automotive industry would be severely affected.

“Any sort of reduction in the Green Car Innovation Fund, which was obviously established to encourage R&D and the establishment of innovative projects, will affect the supply chain as one of the key beneficiaries of the fund – there is no doubt about that,” he told the source.

GCIF cuts were announced by shadow treasurer Joe Hockey in May, as part of the government's efforts to cut debt and deficit. The federal Labor party said it would cut GCIF spending by $200 million over three years, mostly as a result of lack of applications for funding.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Daniel Patrascu
Daniel Patrascu profile photo

Daniel loves writing (or so he claims), and he uses this skill to offer readers a "behind the scenes" look at the automotive industry. He also enjoys talking about space exploration and robots, because in his view the only way forward for humanity is away from this planet, in metal bodies.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories