Start up your engines
Hop into the driver’s seat and start those engines because the electric vehicle revolution has reached our Southern shores. Even though Victoria isn’t the state with the HIGHEST rate of EV drivers, we aren’t far behind NSW in terms of EV buying rates. And is it any surprise that Melbournians would turn to EVs with the growing climate conscientiousness and fight to reduce carbon emissions? In addition to the social cause, EV infrastructure is also being developed across Melbourne and Victoria, allowing those who have already made the switch to charge their electric vehicle across the CBD.
In South Melbourne, our strong community of mechanics are also offering EV servicing and maintenance appointments that cater expressly to electric vehicles. And with EV mechanics in Tullamarine for northern suburbs drivers and even mechanics located centrally across Melbourne’s east and west as well, there is growing support infrastructure as well as servicing providers for virtually all the most popular electric vehicle models in Australia.
So what has caused this shift to electric vehicles and what’s in it for you? We’re looking at the key reasons that Melbourne dwellers are making the switch to EV cruising.
Environmental Benefits
It is no surprise that the environmental benefits of EVs is one of the leading reasons drivers all over the globe are making the switch. The reduction in carbon emissions and air pollution in city areas is the driving force behind the surge of electric vehicles in Scandinavian countries, and with the increasing development of climate consciousness it is no wonder Australians are looking for a way to offset their own carbon footprint.
Melbourne’s continued pledge to lead the world in sustainability is a reflection of the communities within the Victorian capital that have been campaigning for climate action for years. When it comes to progressive policies and revolutionary ideals, Melbourne is the Australian city leading the charge.
Cost Saving Benefits of EV driving
This aspect is perhaps slightly underappreciated in our current societal dialogue. As prices are beginning to rise on everyday essentials, the savvy city slicker is looking for any way to cut the costs. Be it on the weekly grocery shop or spending less on services such as haircuts, there have been many innovative ways the modern consumer can cut down on their spending to maintain their savings.
In previous years, the decision to switch to EVs would be a higher risk with very few affordable options available and even less experts available to cover any repairs or maintenance. The market for EVs was once exclusively reserved for high end car brands that offered the alternative with a high price tag and the promise of luxury. In addition, insurance companies would often scale up their premiums for covering an EV as they did not have the same assurability as a non EV.
Increasingly however, most major car manufacturers have begun to design and sell EVs bringing the cost down significantly for consumers searching for the perfect EV match for their needs. From the classic and trailblazing Tesla, to a more modest and practical Hyundai Kona, the range of EVs available to the modern day consumer which leads into our third point of appeal.
Increased options with more EV manufacturers
Historically, the choice for electric over fuel was one that was reserved for those who could afford the steep price that EVs would often carry. With features like self driving availability or increased digital connectivity, it is hard not to view EVs as science fiction.
There have been many developments to the structure and manufacturing of EVs making them more affordable than ever and the trend looks to be moving in favour of creating a cost-effective vehicle available for all needs.
In 2023 Tesla introduced the Cybertruck, and whilst not without its own problems the mission statement put out by the company was clear; an EV is no longer just a city car. Claiming to be bullet-proof and adequate for all terrains, the Cybertruck is a shift away from the EVs we had come to know and towards something entirely revolutionary.
An EV that is equipped for tackling inner city driving as well as the harsher outback landscapes of our great southern land may just be the selling point for those Australians that are still on the fence about the future of electric vehicles. And whilst the Cybertruck may not be the answer, there is certainly a prospect of an EV 4WD in the near future.
A switch for the future
In summary, the appeal of electric vehicles is bolstered by their increasing affordability, and diversity in make and design. Whilst insurance companies still charge around 20% more to insure an EV, the current market trends seem to favour a decline in this expense.
Additionally, Melbourne’s increasing implementation of infrastructure that supports EVs seems to predict an uptick in those opting for electric. There is no doubt that for the environmentally conscious and considerate individual, making the switch to EV is a no-brainer. But as the development of technology inevitably continues, it won’t be long before EVs become the new normal.
