Australians Say Electric Cars Are the Future – New Poll

17.04.19 By
This content is more than 4 years old

TWO-THIRDS OF Australians expect to purchase an electric car in future, according to new polling commissioned by the Climate Council.

The poll, conducted by YouGov Galaxy, surveyed 861 eligible voters online between April 10 and 11.

“Australians are much more forward-thinking than the Federal Government.  They are keen to be part of the electric revolution with one in six people planning to purchase an electric vehicle next time they buy a car,” said Climate Councillor and former head of BP Australasia, Greg Bourne.

“The results show the Federal Government is out of touch with everyday Australians. Last week Prime Minister Scott Morrison rubbished electric vehicles, while our polling shows the majority of Australians (55%) believe they represent the future,” said Mr Bourne.

The survey also found 62% of Australians support a target for electric vehicles, with 44% supporting Labor’s aim for 50% of all new vehicles to be electric by 2030 and 18% believing it should go even further.

More than a third of respondents said they liked the convenience of being able to charge their car from home.

The poll also found that one in two Australians would consider buying an electric car when they become as cheap as petrol cars. This is projected to occur by 2025.  

Transport is a significant source of greenhouse gas pollution, contributing to almost 20 percent of Australia’s emissions.

The poll found that two-thirds of Australians believe electric vehicles reduce pollution and are beneficial for people’s health and for the environment. This included 62% of people who identified as Coalition voters.

“Under this Federal Government, our greenhouse gas pollution has risen year on year.  That’s what happens when there’s no leadership on climate change. Australia has been in the go-slow lane and it’s time for a new and innovative approach,” said Mr Bourne.


For more information please contact Senior Communications Advisor, Lisa Upton on 0438 972 260 or Communications Officer, Brianna Hudson on 0455 238 875.

The Climate Council is Australia’s leading climate change communications organisation. We provide authoritative, expert and evidence-based advice on climate change to journalists, policymakers, and the wider Australian community.

For further information, go to: climatecouncil.org.au

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