Future Auto NT 2024

FUTURE AUTO

CHAIR’S MESSAGE

Welcome to our special EV edition of Motor Trade Magazine!

Motor Trade Magazine has a proud history of bringing you the latest automotive industry news across the Northern Territory. So it only seems fitting to shine a spotlight on one of the most important evolutions in the industry’s history – the electrification of transport.

Electric vehicles are not new. In fact, some of the earliest examples date back to the mid-1800s. Since the global launch of the Toyota Prius in 2000, we have seen the electrification of vehicles go mainstream.

There are some people who will tell you that electric vehicles will never happen and others who will tell you

that we will all be driving one tomorrow. The truth is that neither side is correct, but it’s clear that electric vehicles are here to stay and will play an important role in the decarbonisation of transport in Australia.

2023 was a significant milestone for full battery electric vehicles, with sales of new EVs increasing by 315 per cent compared with the year prior. To put this into context, electric vehicle sales now make up 2.8 per cent of all new cars sold and together with hybrids make up 11.8 per cent.

While we know that Territorians love their utes and 4X4s and will continue to rely on them, the transition to zero and low emission vehicles is well underway.

Our efforts are likewise focused on upskilling the close to 2,000 skilled technicians in automotive repair and maintenance, as well as preparing businesses to adapt for tomorrow’s customers.

For the Northern Territory, this means more MTA electric vehicle training in the future, in addition to our strong advocacy to government at a Territory and Federal level.

As you will see across this publication, the spirit of innovation and exciting pace of change does not only limit itself to passenger vehicles. Whether it’s the charge towards electrification in mining, the cuttingedge use of autonomous technology in agricultural machinery or the potential for battery reuse, repair and recycling, there is much to witness.

Blink and you will miss it.

While we know many are considering an electric vehicle, this transition is not without its challenges. Affordability in particular remains one of the top obstacles stopping ordinary Territorians from their next purchase being an electric vehicle.

Despite the often-cited factor of range anxiety, the reality is that electric vehicles are being fitted out with generous capacity, with 450kms range and greater becoming commonplace. Charging infrastructure on the other hand must be at the forefront of thinking by decision makers, because while a city commute has confirmed proof of concept, overseas experience demonstrates that ‘queue anxiety’ reigns during long weekends and holiday periods.

Finally, we need a partnership approach with government in training the next generation of apprentices and upskilling our existing industry to work on all vehicle technologies from internal combustion, hybrid, to battery. And in the not-so-distant future, maybe even hydrogen.

Looking at the road ahead and I see an exciting future full of enormous potential and opportunity.

I trust you will enjoy this special edition of Motor Trade Magazine and come away with more than a few insights on what this extraordinary transformation will mean for the Territory.

EV SALES BOOM

COMES WITH WARNING

The Northern Territory reached a five year high, with 10,267 new vehicles sold in 2023.

“Not since 2017 have we seen such strong performance in the automotive retail sector,” Motor Trade Association CEO Darrell Jacobs said.

“Northern Territory new vehicle sales increased by 4.2 per cent when compared to 2022.” he said.

Electric vehicle sales similarly made their mark in 2023, continuing their year-on-year growth.

“While the Northern Territory has been slower in the uptake of electric vehicles, we saw a year-onyear increase of 315 per cent” he said.

Of all new car sales in the Northern Territory in 2023, full battery electric vehicles made up 2.8 per cent, traditional hybrids 8.6 per cent and plug in hybrids 0.4 per cent.

“While we know that Territorians love their utes and 4X4s, the transition to zero and low emission vehicles is well underway,” he said.

MTA comment

Motor Trade Association CEO Darrell Jacobs cautioned, “Vehicle affordability, charging and road infrastructure, and an appropriately skilled workforce remain top priorities if ambitions for the decarbonisation of transport are to be realised.”

The sales update comes ahead of the announcement of the Federal Government’s proposed fuel efficiency standard.

“The MTA urges governments to favour the carrot over the stick as we transition to zero and low emission vehicles.” he said.

“With the Federal Government’s proposed fuel efficiency standard looming large, we don’t want to see ordinary Territorians punished if they cannot afford an electric vehicle.”

Full battery electric vehicles:

Traditional hybrids:

8.6% of

Plug-in hybrids: of new vehicles sold 2.8 %

0.4% of

Top 5 selling new cars in the NT in 2023

Ford steps up for commercial

Years after EVs first hit the headlines, going electric is still a big step for many Australians, according to Ford Australia.

This is particularly the case for people using vehicles for work.

“Many of them are our customers at Ford Australia,” said Christine Wagner, General Manager, Fleet and Upfitting, Ford Australia. “What they tell us is that they need vehicles that can provide the optimum combination of uncompromised capability, practicality and technology. Electrification is a focus, but it can’t come at the cost of reduced fleet efficiency or performance.”

Ford is a brand built on icons like the Mustang, F-150, Ranger and Transit.

“Every vehicle in our line-up has been developed with a customer at the core. And we’ve spent the last century getting to know our customers very well.

“Australian commercial vehicle owners have exacting expectations from their vehicles and see them as an essential tool for their work.

“For those who choose to make the transition to EV, our job is to give them the confidence they need, while offering vehicles that get the job done.”

Commercial

The commercial segment is one major focus of our Australian EV

portfolio, with the E-Transit battery electric van now on sale, the E-Transit Custom to join later this year, and the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) coming in early 2025.

“They offer the capability and performance drivers expect from vehicles that have already proven their worth with businesses across the globe,” said Christine.

The E-Transit and All-New E-Transit Custom are described by Ford Australia as having cabins that are “fully equipped workplaces, catering to the drivers’ every need as they go about their daily tasks”.

“Both vehicles deliver outstanding load-carrying capability, while offering safety and driver assistance technology as well as new ways to optimise fleet performance, all with a global reputation for comfort, drivability, and dependability.”

The E-Transit Custom is built with next-gen connectivity at its heart, reimagining Europe’s best-selling van for a new era of electrified productivity. Neither does it compromise on uptime, supporting DC fast charging up to 124 kW for a 15-80 per cent recharge in 41 minutes.

The company is also understandably excited about the recently announced Ranger PHEV.

“Australia is unique – our customers are spread across metro, regional and rural areas. While most Ranger

customers drive less than 40 km per day, many also travel off-road, tow and need a highly capable vehicle every day,” said Christine.

The Ranger PHEV will offer the option to drive in pure electric mode for more than 45 kilometres without using fuel or producing tailpipe emissions. Beyond this, drivers will be able to switch to hybrid mode and travel further while carrying or towing heavy loads.

The PHEV will also power worksite tools with Pro Power Onboard and has a 3.5 tonne towing ability.

“The Ford Ranger was Australia’s best-selling vehicle in 2023; we anticipate Ranger PHEV bringing more commercial customers to the Ford brand as they look for an electrified option,” said Christine. Overall cost of ownership is also a critical consideration for commercial vehicle owners. How does the company approach this challenge?

“Our network of Authorised Ford EV Dealers, which will be expanded to 100+ by the end of 2024, can offer extensive support for EVs, equipped with charging infrastructure, specialist EV workshop equipment and knowledge of end-user maintenance routines.

“This, along with our commitment to ensuring extensive dealer staff training, means owners can rest assured they are backed by our nationwide network when choosing a Ford EV.

“With our growing electrified commercial vehicle portfolio that aims to hit the sweet spot of capability and performance, and a highly trained dealer network, Ford is excited to help Australians electrify for the real world and make a real impact to local businesses.”

THE FUTURE

OF SERVICE STATIONS

To assess the future of petrol stations, Future Auto spoke with two key executives at bp Australia and New Zealand: Paul Augé, Vice President, Mobility and Convenience, and Jeffrey Liu, General Manager, bp pulse Australia.

In general, how have Australian service stations changed over the last decade and does this reflect international trends?

Paul: As Australia continues to progress the energy transition, significant changes are taking place in service stations across the country.

The energy transition presents a huge opportunity for the fuel industry to jump headfirst into diversifying from traditional fuels to new sources of energy.

We can see these changes happening already, with the roll-out of electric vehicle (EV) charging at service stations. By providing Australians with more options to charge their vehicles when they are on-the-go, service stations are

playing an important role in the transition to electrification.

Globally, bp is transforming its retail offering to ensure we continue to provide customers with the energy they need. As energy sources evolve, so are customer behaviours at service stations.

We anticipate customers will spend more time in-store while vehicles are charging, so we’re reimagining our retail offering for a superior instore experience.

By 2025, bp aims to increase its customer touchpoints to more than 15 million a day globally. Our convenience strategy is about creating something distinctive that sets us apart from other convenience offers.

What is bp pulse?

Jeffrey: bp pulse is bp’s electrification business in Australia and is an important element of our broader strategy to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner.

As the world turns to electric, we are drawing on our global expertise to

give Australians the energy to power their EVs.

bp pulse operates in the United Kingdom, China, Germany, India, Spain, Portugal and the United States, and has an ambition to install 100,000 EV charge points globally.

What has bp pulse achieved to date and what are your future plans and targets?

Jeffrey: Since launching bp pulse in Australia in late 2022, we’ve now installed over 100 EV charge points across the country.

We’ve delivered more than 2.2 million kWh of energy to our customers in this time. This is enough power to drive from Melbourne to the Moon 28 times in an EV.

With rapid progress, we’re well on our way towards building the most convenient EV charging network in the country, with more charge points and charging hubs at a variety of locations across Australia. Looking ahead, we are planning to have installed 600 EV charge points in Australia by 2025.

How does home charging feature in your analysis?

Jeffrey: bp has been providing fuel to Australians for over 100 years, and we’re rolling out our charging infrastructure to ensure that everyone has access to convenient EV chargers when they need it.

Our focus is on continuing our expansion of charging infrastructure at our bp sites across the country. By doing so, we hope to reduce some of the barriers that are preventing Australians from adopting EVs, such as range anxiety.

We are working with key partners to help EV drivers charge at home, such as our initial offer with AGL Energy in 2023. Through projects like this we hope to encourage

uptake for people considering an EV.

How important is fast charging?

Jeffrey: Having access to convenient fast charging options will be critical to supporting the transition to EVs.

For more drivers to make the switch to EVs, they need to have confidence that their vehicles can be charged quickly at a range of convenient public charging stops.

While drivers will always be able to charge their vehicles at home more slowly overnight, fast charging enables drivers to get back to their journeys more quickly.

change, we do too. We’re currently transforming our convenience offering to provide customers with a food offer that meets their needs.

Are there any measures that bp pulse would like to see at the political level to assist the industry and/or consumers?

Jeffrey: We believe the electrification of transport is a key part of helping Australia get to net zero. We have been pleased to see all levels of government get behind EVs but there is still a way to go.

Ultra-fast charging (over 150 kW) can offer a comparable experience to current refuelling and many of bp’s sites globally plan to upgrade their infrastructure to meet this speed.

If charging at a service station takes longer than filling up with petrol, how important is the mix of food, retail and convenience?

Paul: As the world changes, it’s important that we keep up with this progress to ensure that we can continue to provide customers with the energy they want, when and where they want it.

As customers make the switch to electric vehicles, we expect their retail behaviours to change too. We anticipate customers will spend more time in-store while their vehicle charges and will be looking for convenience and comfort.

For bp, it’s important that as customer needs evolve and

For charge point operators like bp pulse, grid connectivity remains the significant determiner for the roll-out of fast charging infrastructure. To enable Australia to continue moving forward on its EV journey, being able to anticipate demand areas for public charging and making it easier to identify whether there is adequate installed capacity and second lines of supply would be valuable. Governments could incentivise for more charging infrastructure and competition in regional Australia where demand growth is expected to be low. This would boost confidence for EV drivers visiting these areas and support regional tourism.

In other markets like Germany, bp is partnering with government to build gigahubs in metropolitan and regional locations where multiple fast charge points are co-located. It’s a solution that would enable fast and efficient charging and allow multiple drivers to charge, reducing range anxiety.

Collaboration between government and industry will be necessary to identify key areas, ensure timely

planning and connection across networks is possible.

Consumer behaviour shows there is a willingness to embrace EVs, but the scale of this transition to electrification should not be underestimated. Supporting early adopters will be crucial to ensuring Australians continue to make the switch.

3

THINGS

you didn’t know about EV tyres

1

They are engineered to be quieter – “so all you will hear inside the car are road and wind noise”. Pirelli’s BEV-specific products incorporate sound-absorbing sponge beneath the tread.”

2

3

Most EVs don’t come with a spare tyre to save weight, which increases range. A tyre with runflat capabilities is being developed to keep the vehicle moving until the punctured tyre can be replaced.

Using the wrong tyres on EVs can reduce range and add to car noise.

Opportunity knocks for EV techs

According to Jodi Ryan, General Manager of Apprenticeships at the MTA SA/NT, mechanics with the ability to service both traditional and electric vehicles can pave the way for a secure financial future. She said the shortage of qualified technicians in this field has led to a considerable gap in one of the world’s largest emerging markets.

“Right now, there is an enormous skills shortage. Job opportunities would open quickly for technicians with these skills. However, significant training in electrical or battery electric technology is needed for current technicians, and this process will take some time. For those committing to this path in the long run, it’s the way forward.”

Training pathway

The pathway begins with the Certificate III in either Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology (AUR30620), Mobile Plant Technology (AUR31220), Agricultural Mechanical Technology (AUR30420) and Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technology (AUR31130). Following that, you can advance to the Qualified Technician to Automotive Electrician Program, spanning up to 12 months. The final stage is the Electric Vehicle Technician Program, which might entail an additional 12 months of training unless you are already a qualified Automotive Electrical Technician.

According to Jodi Ryan, General Manager of Apprenticeships at the MTA SA/NT, mechanics with the ability to service both traditional and electric vehicles can pave the way for a secure financial future. She said the shortage of qualified technicians in this field has led to a considerable gap in one of the world’s largest emerging markets.

“Right now, there is an enormous skills shortage. Job opportunities would open quickly for technicians with these skills. However, significant training in electrical or battery electric technology is needed for current technicians, and this process will take some time. For those committing to this path in the long run, it’s the way forward.”

Jodi recently returned from Melbourne after being part of a Strategic Workforce Advisory Panel for the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA), where they discussed insights about key issues and challenges to future proof the automotive workforce.

Earlier this month they presented their key findings for the initial Automotive Workforce Plan: ‘The Future Is Now’.

In the report they quoted Capricorn Society’s recent survey that found 22 per cent of respondents viewed EVs as a challenge for the industry, only 18 per cent considering themselves currently, or soon to be, ready to service them.

Meanwhile, AAAA’s Future Readiness Index suggests that 10 per cent of businesses are already ‘Future Ready’, with a further 40% making progress towards becoming ‘Future Ready’.

The AUSMASA report also pointed out that in addition to investing in physical infrastructure to support the servicing of EVs, appropriate training for technicians will be critical. There are currently two skill sets and one dedicated qualification within the AUR training package designed to help equip current and future technicians with the skills they need to safely service and repair EVs:

• AUR32721 Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology

• AURSS00063 - Battery Electric Vehicle Diagnose and Repair Skill Set

• AURSS00064 - Battery Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set

The two skills sets are currently the primary method of upskilling existing technicians, with the AUR32721 Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology the logical qualification to eventually become the default choice for automotive mechanical apprentices.

“The progress in mobile plant technology, commercial buses, and trucks is astonishing.”

Jodi and the AUSMASA panel will seek feedback and insights into workforce challenges and skills opportunities in the Australian automotive industry to better inform the final 2024 Workforce Plan.

Training pathway

The demand for qualifications in automotive electrical work has surged.

“Our members are now thinking beyond the next 12 months,” stated Jodi. “They’re discussing strategies to ensure the future success of their businesses.”

“Members have shared with us that their main gap is in electrical knowledge,” explained Jodi. “When dealing with an EV, everything is electrical, and it’s all covered in orange, which you don’t touch.”

The MTA has gained recognition as a national leader in EV training, boasting one of the top EV training centres in Australia.

Future of Apprenticeships

The development of a dual trade for apprenticeships, for heavy and light, and combining that with automotive electrical, is an approach that ensures an apprentices receive training tailored to current industry requirements while also preparing them for the anticipated surge in electric vehicles.

“It’s important to note that internal combustion engines are projected to stay for another 40 to 50 years,

emphasising the significance of having a technician with expertise in both technologies.”

By then, Jodi expects more people will begin to understand the switch to battery electric is not just about cars.

“The progress in mobile plant technology, commercial buses, and trucks is astonishing. The most significant impact is seen in mobile plant equipment; those small diggers at residential construction sites are now all electric. They operate silently, enabling them to commence work earlier, charge during the night, and are more compact and mobile. Several workshops are opting to remove traditional air lines for air guns and replacing this with electric alternatives. In every sector, the adoption of this technology is increasing as it becomes smaller and more affordable. I believe hydrogen fuel cells will also have a significant role in this shift.”

A forward-thinking perspective is needed, delivery of training solutions today to meet the growing demand from both businesses and individuals that will be required into the future.

Female participation

Jodi noted, “We’re seeing a growing interest among women who want to pursue opportunities in the automotive sector, especially with the transition to electric vehicles, and we’re excited about bringing more of them on board.”

“Traditionally, the industry has been perceived as a maledominated environment associated with dirt and grease.

Women represent 20 per cent of the automotive workforce, compared to 47.9 per cent of all industries in Australia providing an insight into the size of the gap between other industries and that of the automotive industry. Women represent 4.5 per cent of enrolments in Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology and 13.2 per cent in the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation.

“With the emergence of fully electric or electric hybrid cars, they are now clean and free from grease, which makes them particularly appealing to people with a computer oriented and analytical mindset.”

Fueled by her deep passion for the industry and extensive training background, Jodi is eagerly looking forward to witnessing someone complete an entire four-year journey toward becoming a certified electric vehicle technician.

“I can’t wait to see the upcoming experts who will lead innovation and progress in electric vehicle technology.”

HEAVY CONVERSIO N

“Unlike cars, trucks generally have preset routes... It’s all smart integrated. The charging stations will almost anticipate your arrival.”

VEHICLES REVOLUTIO N FOR

Jared Archer, Managing Director of Archer Heavy Equipment Repairs & Archer Retail Group, is pivoting his heavy vehicle diesel repair business now to avoid being “left behind”.

Archer Heavy Equipment Repairs has partnered with NSW battery electric solution provider Janus Electric, becoming that company’s first authorised dealer in SA to convert diesel trucks to battery electric systems.

But it’s not a decision he made lightly.

“As we all know, if you don’t move with the times, the times don’t stop for you,” Jared said.

“We wanted to be an early adopter of the technology – we wanted to be a market leader.

“Obviously our industry is pretty flooded with different brands and dealerships, so opening another dealership with the only point of difference being “brand” seemed like a dead end.

He said it was an opportunity to launch not only a different brand but an entirely new industry locally, as well as having the opportunity of being a leader in the country for battery electric technology.

“We saw battery electric as a feasible option. When we learned about Janus Electric’s business model and the way we could change batteries, we got a little excited and thought people would be able to implement that into their business straight away, versus waiting for charging infrastructure.

“We then approached Janus and after carrying out their due diligence, we were selected as the Adelaide dealership for the conversions to take place from our workshop.”

“We’ve been on board assisting with the conversions for the last few years.”

Financial case

Janus provides Jared with the batteries and the conversion kit and his business does the rest.

The conversion is usually completed within four weeks at a cost of $175,000.

It sounds like a large investment but it’s just a fraction of the price of a new battery-electric vehicle which costs anywhere between $750,000 to $900,000.

Once a vehicle is converted, batteries can be swapped at designated Janus recharge stations for $125.

Bigger companies have the option to purchase their own recharge stations but the public stations are far more economical for smaller companies and owner operators.

“Your fuel costs are reduced almost exponentially, which for an owner-operator is huge,” Jared said.

“They fall by about 30 per cent. So if you’re running a fleet of trucks and you’ve got a fuel bill of $100,000 a month as a mid-size operator, to have an extra $30,000 in your pocket every single month is massive. This doesn’t factor in your reduction in maintenance costs either.”

The range of the batteries varies greatly depending on the truck’s size, weight, how it is driven, as well as any prevailing headwinds or tailwinds. The same variables go for diesel too.

But a battery typically delivers between 300-600 km before it needs replacing.

Janus’ battery network remains in its embryonic stages, with only about 25 trucks on the road, all still restricted to short runs.

As the network expansion is rolled out, Jared said it would “help to decrease that ‘range anxiety’ which people have with anything electric at the moment.

“But I don’t think that’s an issue for trucks as much as it is for cars.

“Unlike cars, trucks generally have preset routes. You can plan your routes easily and together with Janus’ live analysis and infrastructure, you can find out where and when the batteries are available and when they will be fully charged. It’s all smart integrated.

As an example, a 700 km route might require two battery swaps en route, each taking four minutes. As Jared said – “like the blink of an eye; you’re in, you’re out.”

Robotics

Charging stations are presently staffed with a forklift working the changeover but already, those days are numbered.

“When the robotic chargers start going in, people won’t know what’s hit them.

“When companies start seeing the profits they are missing out on running diesel and they start getting comfortable with the idea of battery electric, any business owner would be silly not to make the switch.”

Business owners who are sceptical may hesitate to commit and invest in batteries, but Jared is firmly convinced that this is just the beginning.

“I am a diesel mechanic and automotive electrician. While diesel engines are my main focus and concern, it’s important to note that electric motors, despite causing some apprehension, have actually been around for a longer time than diesel motors.”

“In my view, joining is unavoidable, so we predict a significant increase in demand, keeping us fully booked for up to two years.”

Thomas Davenport is credited with inventing the electric motor in 1834, predating the diesel engine by 59 years.

“The issue people face is their resistance to change, but I believe that mindset is outdated.

“In this generation, most people are familiar only with diesel engines; they associate them exclusively with trucks and anything requiring substantial torque. I may not witness it in my lifetime, but as a forward thinker, I see a future where diesel might not exist. Diesel has reached its pinnacle, and further improvements seems unlikely.

“Those familiar with market dynamics understand the importance of not investing at the market’s peak. You want to ride the upward wave, not catch it on the way down from its peak. Now, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are at the start of this wave, and their advancements are inevitable.

“So, for us, it would be unwise to not establish a business in this direction.”

Emerging generation

“The choice is either to embrace change or face the risk of perishing,” Jared said.

“Similar to how Blockbuster overlooked Netflix, Nokia overlooked Apple, and Kodak overlooked the digital camera, these major corporations failed to recognise that change is unavoidable.

“Despite our confidence in understanding how the world operates, in 30 years, it will be our children who are in charge.

“Their disregard for diesel is not based on its functioning or history; instead, they view it as impractical because of the pollution it causes on our planet.

“I’ve noticed my kid’s asking questions that never crossed my mind when I was their age.

“Their mindset is different, and it won’t be too long before they’re the ones making decisions, leading to a shift where outdated practices like diesel may fade away completely.”

Tipping point

“This change is happening gradually for us. Even though most of our work still revolves around diesel repairs, we have secured commitments from Diamond Bros and Symons Clark in Adelaide for these trucks, with Diamond Bros’ truck set to be delivered shortly.

“Once these guys are up and running, everyone else won’t have a choice.

“The choice is between letting these companies boost their bottom line, leading to increased size and industry dominance, or becoming part of the movement. In my view, joining is unavoidable, so we predict a significant increase in demand, keeping us fully booked for up to two years.”

Q A &

Lessons from the ‘frontline’

Q1: You were part of the launch of Australia’s first electric car at Mitsubishi. That was in 2009, 15 years ago. What did you learn from that experience?

Some of the lessons we learned still exist today. Customers were unsure of range, being a battery car was very foreign to them and they were uncertain about the infrastructure to support it. Affordability was also an issue. It was a $55,000 car competing in the $20,000 car segment.

Q2: Fast forward to 2024 and we’ve seen a significant uptake in electric vehicles. What has changed?

They are becoming more mainstream, with much greater awareness of them in the media and on the roads. There is also a greater choice for the customer, and ultimately, the link to decarbonisation is stronger.

Q3: What is one thing missing in the discussion around this transition to zero and low emission vehicles?

The discussion seems to be centred on everyone needing to drive electric vehicles quickly and that they will all be here tomorrow. What’s missing is an understanding that vehicle technologies are constantly improving. Diesel technologies are improving, there are a large number of hybrids and hydrogen is on its way. People seem stuck on talking purely about EVs. And we can’t forget that it’s not just about the vehicle; it is about infrastructure, skills, safety and recycling. Not to mention, it is a 20+ year transition. So, we must discuss the whole ecosystem.

Q4: How do you arrive at that number on the road?

Today there are around 20 million vehicles on the road in Australia, and we sell about a million new cars a year. The math is simple; it will take 20 years to change over. We also know, in countries that are advanced in their EV adoptions, customers are keeping their internal combustion vehicles for longer - sometimes up to 18 years.

Q5: Training is critical. What does this mean for people entering the automotive industry and those already employed in our sector?

The technology in an electric vehicle is different, but they still need to be serviced and repaired. With high voltage running through them, the first priority is safety. Currently, we have many technicians with a mechanical background who require reskilling to handle these vehicles that enter the workshop.

Q6: NT and Australia suffer from the tyranny of distance. But, as new cars increase their range and the charging network expands, does ‘range anxiety’ even matter anymore?

It’s an interesting question. We are starting to see potential in solid state batteries that would allow vehicles to travel a lot further. But there is anxiety in consumers heads around whether they will make it to

the next charge station and if it’s already occupied or working. Generally in urban locations, you know you can drive to work and charge it at home but the anxiety begins the moment you leave the city.

Q7: You talk to automotive businesses every day. What are they telling you about this transition?

Automotive businesses are very diverse. A dealership selling electric cars is already seeing many customers as they come back for servicing. But an independent repair shop around the corner may not have seen a single EV and don’t expect to for some time. And the same goes for recyclers, so it’s a different pace depending on which part of the industry you’re in.

Overall, we are seeing increased interest from qualified mechanics wanting to upgrade their skills and remain relevant.

Q8: What’s your one message to members about electric vehicles?

Embrace EVs because they are coming, whether you like it or not. Read widely to see what’s happening in your space and start preparing your staff and your business. Not everything you read will happen tomorrow, but you will gain a general awareness - and you will see there are huge opportunities due to the paradigm shift occurring in the industry.

MINING

AT A CRITICAL TURNING POINT

The growth of zero and low emission vehicles in Australian mining is gathering pace.

As long-standing contracts expire, adoption of the new technology is starting to accelerate, with Normet forecasting its EV sales to increase from 10 per cent to 50 per cent in the next five years.

Part of the impetus is the need for mining companies to prove their environmental, social and governance (ESG) credentials. Major finance firms are increasingly refusing to invest client funds in miners with a poor environmental record.

At an individual level, the reduced emissions, heat and noise are being wholeheartedly welcomed by underground miners. However, most mines still have a heavy reliance on

diesel and it takes considerable time to upgrade infrastructure to suit battery-powered equipment.

Normet

Finnish company Normet has been offering mining and tunnelling solutions, including concrete spraying, transporting and explosive charger machines, since 1962.

In 2015, it began research and development of SmartDrive, the modular battery electric vehicles it builds from scratch, using Polish battery supplier Impact Clean Power Technology.

By 2019, it had built and sold its first SmartDrive into Australia.

Eight of those vehicles, comprising about 10 per cent of Normet’s annual output, are currently operating in

“These trucks are quieter, generate less heat and the underground air is cleaner.”

Australia in the Tanami Desert, the Northern Goldfields Region and in South Australia at the Carrapateena Mine and Prominent Hill.

There are another eight hybrid machines at Olympic Dam.

Hybrid units use a diesel engine to power a generator, significantly reducing CO2 emissions when under full load, operating at low rpm ranges, down from a typical diesel engine at 2700 rpm.

The balance of Normet’s sales remain dieselpowered vehicles.

Brendan Percy, National Technical Manager at Normet Asia Pacific’s Adelaide office, sees a strong future. He predicts the sales of battery electric equipment to be as high as 40 per cent within three years and hit 50 per cent within five.

Mine upgrades

There are several factors putting the brakes on the sector’s ability to dump diesel for batteries.

“People say the biggest hurdle is how fast we can develop them, build them, get them into production and get them to the mine,” Brendan said.

But that tells only part of the story.

“Most mines have not been designed to handle this amount of electrification,” he said.

“Every mine has a grid system set up for its expected power requirements for its production life.

“If the mine is 10 years old, it wasn’t set up to plug in 40 machines a day to load the grid for things like the trucks and loaders.

“You might have a 60-tonne truck that’s running on diesel. When you move to an electric model, the density of the energy storage you need on those batteries is huge because they are running such high weights.

“So an older mine that hasn’t been planning for this, if they were to plug in every charger that they needed at the same time to charge their batteries, they’d probably overload the grid and they wouldn’t be able to operate.

“The phase we see at the moment is where there are upgrades to the mines themselves for their grid structure to accommodate the extra requirement for charging these batteries.

“The appetite is there. It’s how fast mine owners and then the subcontractors can accommodate the change in technology.”

Equipment contracts

Long-standing agreements between mining companies and subcontractors also have to expire before change can be implemented.

“It very much relies on where contracts are at as well.

“If a mining company runs a five or seven-year contract with their subcontractors, they have only got that ability to make that change of request for the type of machine at the end of the contract.

“It’ll be a slow creep.

“The sector says we want to do everything now but the reality is they need to stage this because they need to make changes to the structure of the mine sites and supply chains need to ramp up to facilitate this.

“They can’t just switch diesel off straight away because they have to set up the electrical infrastructure of the mines themselves.”

Big players

The pressure to make positive change, Brendan said, is coming from the very top of the industry.

“The big mining houses are predominantly the drivers of BEV/hybrid supply.

“The majority of our sales are actually the subcontractors but the mining houses are the ones putting the big pressure on and a lot of that is driven by shareholders.

“These companies want to be at the front for the change.”

That pressure also trickles all the way to the bottom, more than a kilometre below the earth’s surface where some miners find themselves as old dogs learning new tricks.

Normet’s SmartDrive machines, including its explosive chargers and shotcrete, can be plugged into a 1000AC grid while they operate or connect to any fast chargers with CCS charging communication standard and CCS2 fast charging plugs, including Normet’s own 40, 160 or 320 kW chargers.

Their batteries can also be recharged via regenerative braking as the vehicle travels back underground.

But recharging below ground may still be necessary if the vehicle needs to return to the surface.

“The expectation is that you get a full shift out of a tank of fuel.

“BEV’s will do that with opportune charging during the shift. But if they have to then get it out of the portal and take it to the surface, they would have to stop for a bit of a charge.

“These trucks are quieter, generate less heat and the underground air is cleaner.

“Once they see the positive benefit of that, we generally get operators on board pretty quickly.”

MTA assistance

While the MTA does not offer training in the NT, some businesses have elected to send technicians to Adelaide for training. Regardless, the following points provide an insight into how some members are solving their challenges.

“In the past, where you had a mechanical fitter and an auto electrician, now you need a 1000V qualified or licensed electrician as well for isolation procedures onsite.

“So there are implications on training and skillsets.

“With every customer we’ve delivered a BEV too, the first thing we do is get them to the MTA’s training course, and then we do our own gap training after that.

“There’s a fair skillset change that the MTA is helping.”

“We place a charger halfway along that journey so they can pull up, connect the fast charger, get a really quick 20 minutes and that gets them out to the surface.”

Training, noise & heat

Normet deploys one of its own to spend the first week of every machine’s life on any new site, retraining drivers.

“The lack of requirement for fuelling is great but it brings its own challenges to the operation because operators have to learn how to correctly charge the machine,” Brendan said.

“There’s some extra training involved with that, as well as how to drive and maintain it.

The MTA’s training model is geared heavily toward safety and it is an absolute priority for Normet.

“MTA is also introducing some of our training materials on Normet specific systems.”

“When assessing the introduction of BEV’s/HEV’s into a new customer’s system and site, one of the first areas we advise on is skills upgrade, including specific training avenues both external and internal to our business.

“We also explain and assess the differences in cell chemistry between those batteries and our current battery technology, which is lithium titanate oxide (LTO).

“The battery strings are closely monitored by a management system to ensure that any issue is identified in the individual cell voltage and temperature.

“There’s a fire suppression system and multiple layer control systems with complex cooling systems that automatically shut machines down.”

The benefits clearly outweigh the risks, and with miners continuing to operate under stringent licencing and investor scrutiny, it will come as no surprise to see the further electrification of mines around the globe.

PRIME OPPORTUNITY

TO

INCENTIVISE CHANGE

Global market forces and international manufacturers are determining the future of automotive technology, and the Northern Territory has a oncein-a-generation opportunity to ensure the right policies and programs will foster the conditions for the automotive industry to succeed in the transition towards the electrification of Australia’s transport.

The MTA has called on the Northern Territory Government to support the transition to electric vehicles

and has recommended that they introduce a $3,000 to $1,000 incentive for the first 1,000 zero and low emission vehicles. This incentive should be available to all zero and low emission battery electric vehicles (BEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) over the next four years.

“The Motor Trade Association would be concerned if there were a lack of financial policies to support EV affordability, during a time when a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard

is being implemented” said Darrell Jacobs, CEO of the MTA SA/NT.

“These concessions should likewise be extended beyond electric vehicles to hybrids and plug-in hybrids. A typical family might not be able to afford an electric vehicle, but they might be more willing to try a hybrid or plug-in hybrid model which will still emit fewer emissions than a petrol or diesel car.

“Hybrids and plug-in hybrids can be more affordable, reduce range anxiety and provide an entry point for motorists who may not have previously considered an electric vehicle.

“With the Federal Government’s proposed fuel efficiency standard looming large, we don’t want to see ordinary Territorians punished if a Ute is a necessity for their livelihood, or they simply cannot afford an electric vehicle.”

Affordability

With a cost of living crisis underway in Australia, and an emerging fuel efficiency standard, now more than ever, Governments must support the uptake of ZLEVs beyond targets.

“The current Labor Government understands cost of living pressures for the average wage earner.

Affordability has proven to be a major obstacle, pointing out that the cheapest EV currently available is still more expensive than the average Australian new car price.

Motorists should be encouraged to adopt fuel efficient technologies.

“We know if affordability is left unaddressed, motorists will simply not charge our transition to zero and low emission vehicles,” said Mr Jacobs.

“So, we should be introducing incentives, with plans to expand on incentives to encourage ZLEV ownership and this should include all zero and low emissions vehicles.”

At ADAS Solutions, we’re passionate about automotive technology. That’s why we’ve expanded our offering to include electric vehicles, with EV Solutions Australia. Our expert technicians can provide EV/HEV diagnosis, repair, decommission/recommission and EV/HEV battery removal and refit. Our team has the latest training, skills, technology and tooling required to work safely on EV/HEVs — so you can be confident your vehicle is being repaired and serviced to the highest standards.

Diagnosis

Repair

Calibration

Coding

Programming and initialisation of components

Ask the MTA’s EV Training Experts

Q1: How do EVs work?

EVs operate on electric power stored in high-capacity batteries. These batteries power an electric motor, propelling the vehicle. Unlike traditional vehicles relying on internal combustion engines, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them environmentally friendly.

Q2: What is the range of an EV?

EV ranges vary by model, but advancements in battery technology have significantly increased these ranges. Modern EVs can typically offer ranges between 300-450 kilometres on a single charge. Factors such as driving conditions, temperature, and driving habits can influence range though.

Q3: How long does it take to charge an EV?

Charging times depend on the charger type and the vehicle’s battery capacity. Level 1 chargers (standard household outlets) may take several hours for a full charge,

while Level 2 AC fast chargers can significantly reduce charging times. Fast DC chargers, often found in public charging stations, can provide a substantial charge of around 3060 minutes in many instances.

Q4: Where can I charge my EV?

Charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly. EV owners can charge at home using a standard outlet or a dedicated home charging station. Public charging stations are becoming more prevalent, located at shopping centres, workplaces, and along highways, ensuring convenient access for drivers.

Q5: Are EVs more expensive than traditional vehicles?

While the initial purchase price of some EVs may be higher, total ownership costs can in some instances be lower due to reduced maintenance and fuel expenses. Incentives, tax credits, and decreasing battery vehicle costs contribute to making EVs increasingly competitive in pricing.

Q6: How long do EV batteries last?

EV battery life is improving with advancements in technology. Modern EV batteries are generally designed to last for 8-15 years, depending on usage and environmental factors. Many manufacturers offer warranties covering the battery for a specified number of years or kilometres.

Q7: Can I use renewable energy to charge my EV?

Yes, EV owners can choose to charge their vehicles using renewable energy sources. Homeowners with solar panels can harness clean energy to power their EVs, reducing their overall carbon footprint.

Q8: What is the environmental impact of EV production?

While the production of EVs involves the extraction of raw materials, overall, they have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional vehicles. As technology advances, manufacturers are working to improve the sustainability of EV production processes.

Q9: Can I tow with an EV?

Yes, many EVs are capable of towing. However, towing capacity and range can vary so it’s essential to check the specifications of the specific EV you are interested in. Manufacturers are continually improving the towing capabilities of EVs.

TARGETS A ROCKY ROAD OVERSEAS EV

Australia should be wary of technology bans, as EV uptake in Britain stutters amidst slowing consumer uptake.

“We need to bring all Australians ‘along for the ride’ in the decarbonisation of the nation’s vehicles,” said MTA SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has raised a few eyebrows around the globe by adjusting the previously announced ban on selling new petrol

and diesel cars from 2030. This has now been delayed to 2035 in line with other European powerhouses, such as France, Germany and Sweden.

As the UK struggles to achieve mass adoption of EVs, the British PM told media: “…at least for now, it should be you the consumer that makes that choice, not the government forcing you to do it.

“Because the upfront cost is still high – especially for families struggling with the cost of living –small businesses are worried about the practicalities, and we’ve got further to go to get the charging infrastructure truly nationwide.”

“We’re aligning our approach with countries like Germany, France,

Spain, Italy, Australia, Canada, Sweden, and [some] US states… and still ahead of the rest of America and other countries like New Zealand.”

Don’t penalise

Britain’s car industry has urged its government to provide tax breaks or other incentives to encourage people to buy electric vehicles, with concerns that consumer sentiment is on the wane.

After growing EV sales to 20 per cent of all new car sales, what seemed like unstoppable and exponential growth has slowed considerably. It is understood that Australian politicians are closely watching the overseas experience.

“The European market is uniquely different to Australia’s and our focus should be on reducing emissions through technology agnostic principles,” said Mr Jacobs.

“Care needs to be taken to not unfairly penalise drivers for a lack of electric vehicle availability or affordability.”

He said the Federal Government should avoid outright bans on specific automotive technologies, especially amidst extraordinary innovation in hybrid technology and the development of biofuels.

“If a 2035 ban was introduced in Australia, the trade-in value of existing petrol and diesel models could plummet and make it difficult for motorists to upgrade to an electric vehicle,” he said.

“This is why we need a national strategy that incentivises EVs and equally ensures we reduce our emissions without punishing motorists.

“For example, we know that even if Australia could achieve greater than 50 per cent of new car sales in 2030 being electric, there would still

be 17 million internal combustion engine vehicles out of the 20 million cars on our roads.

“Australia also requires a comprehensive and fit-for-purpose rapid charging network and a reliable national energy grid to meet this future demand.

“Government funding support will be required to equip the existing automotive workforce, enabling them to understand how to safely sell, service and repair EVs.”

“The European market is uniquely different to Australia’s and our focus should be on reducing emissions through technology agnostic principles.”

FOR AUTOMOTIVE COMMONSENSE VICTORY EFFICIENCY STANDARD

The automotive industry is celebrating a victory for commonsense with the MTA’s calls for improvements to the new vehicle efficiency standard (NVES) made.

These enhancements were tabled in parliament for the Federal Government’s proposed NVES following concerted advocacy efforts from the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA). Of significance, some of the improvements include:

• Recognition that some utes, vans and 4WDs are more appropriately classified in the light commercial vehicle category

• Adjusting the efficiency limits for trucks, vans and some 4WDs to more achievable settings

• A later staging of the proposed penalty scheme to commence in mid 2025 rather than immediately at the start of 2025

• Increased upper weight limits for both light commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles

From day one, MTAA Chief Executive Officer Matthew Hobbs, in addition to MTAA Chair, Frank Agostino worked constructively with the government to highlight concerns and industry impacts around its original preferred model. Only four days after the Federal Government announced its initial consultation on the NVES, the MTA SA/NT joined a high level delegation in Canberra to speak with three key ministers, as well as senior public servants.

The message was clear.

“Go too hard and you will create an affordability crisis,” said MTA SA/NT CEO, Darrell Jacobs.

“Go too soft and we will not incentivise the entry of new zero and low emission vehicles into the country.”

He said the standard would be critical in balancing the growth of more fuel efficient vehicles, while maintaining affordable vehicle choice for everyday NT motorists.

MTAA CEO Matthew Hobbs urged the government to partner with industry to get the workforce in place to support the EV transition.

“As stakeholders resolve EV supply and range issues in Australia, the next challenge is to implement the required workforce. EVs are cutting edge technology and as such need a highly trained Australian workforce. A good first step is to make more apprentices eligible for the New Energy Apprentices Program,” he said.

The MTAA is concerned not all car companies will make the transition. The huge technology shift brings opportunities but also risks for Australian small businesses and automotive workers who can lose their investment and livelihoods at the whim of international car companies in offshore headquarters.

Australian automotive workers and small businesses need the Albanese government to have their back in this period of change with an Automotive Industry Code of Conduct to protect workers who are at the mercy of multinational companies.

The NVES now faces a critical next stage where its passage will be determined by the Federal Parliament.

Warning

The top five cars sold in the Northern Territory are utes or 4WD.

This prompted a warning from Mr Jacobs: “Whether for work or lifestyle, Territorians love their utes and 4X4s. We must adopt an ambitious but realistic approach in light of vehicle segments without readily available or affordable EV options.

The NVES aims to cap the carbon emissions per kilometre on the average total sales for each car brand.

“In balancing the interests of industry, consumers and the environment, the standard needs to be ambitious, yet achievable,” Jacobs reiterated.

“The NVES will impact affordability and determine how quickly Australia transitions to zero and low emission vehicles.”

AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY UNITES IN CANBERRA

MTAA Chair and MTA SA/NT Chair Frank Agostino joined MTAA Board members, MTAA CEO Matthew Hobbs, MTA SA/NT CEO Darrell Jacobs, MTA Government Policy Managers and CEOs from each state Association in Canberra.

They held a series of high-level meetings with senior Ministers, Senators and politicians.

These included:

• Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen

• Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King

• Minister for Small Business, Julie Collins

• Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Ted O’Brien

• S enator Bridget McKenzie

The delegation also met Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, Tony Zappia, alongside his committee colleagues who are examining Australia’s transition to EVs.

The automotive industry’s transition to zero and low-emission vehicles was high on the agenda, alongside automotive franchising reform and skills and training.

It was important that the associations made a powerful and united statement to national decision makers at what is undoubtedly one of the most important moments in Australia’s automotive history.

ZERO AUTOMOTIVE

Zero Automotive stands as a beacon of innovation in the realm of sustainable transportation.

Privately owned by CEO Dave Mitchell, Zero Automotive specialises in converting diesel Land Cruisers into electric vehicles tailored specifically for underground mining operations. With a commitment to environmental stewardship and technological advancement, the Australian company is reshaping the future of mining, one Land Cruiser conversion at a time.

The visionary behind the company

Dave is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for sustainable transportation solutions. With years of experience in the automotive industry and a deep understanding of the mining sector, he recognised the need for cleaner and more efficient vehicles in underground mining operations.

Thus, Zero Automotive was born, driven by a vision to transform diesel Land Cruisers into high-performance electric vehicles capable of withstanding the rigors of mining environments.

Powerful electric drive train

At the heart of Zero Automotive’s conversions lies a powerful 200 kW, 1200 Nm permanent magnet motor, delivering exceptional torque and performance in the challenging conditions of underground mines. Paired with Toshiba LTO batteries – the safest batteries in the world – each conversion boasts a remarkable 20,000 cycles to 70 per cent capacity, equating to a decade of reliable operation. This formidable combination

Innovative protection systems

To further enhance the durability and longevity of its conversions, Zero Automotive has developed the Hazardous Environment Protection System (HEPS). Specifically designed to shield the electric drivetrain and Land Cruiser chassis from corrosion, HEPS represents a significant advancement in vehicle protection technology. By combining specialised coatings, corrosion-resistant materials, and advanced sealing techniques, HEPS ensures that Zero Automotive’s conversions maintain peak performance even in the harshest mining environments.

Proven performance in the field

“Thus, Zero Automotive was born, driven by a vision to transform diesel Land Cruisers into high performance electric vehicles capable of withstanding the rigors of mining environments.”

These vehicles have collectively covered over 100,000 kilometres with no battery deterioration, a testament to the quality and durability of Zero Automotive’s solutions.

Scaling for the future

As demand for sustainable mining solutions continues to grow, Zero is gearing up to meet the challenge. The company aims to produce 200 converted vehicles by the end of 2025, expanding its reach and impact within the mining industry. To facilitate this ambitious goal, it has partnered with CarBon, a leading provider of leasing options, to offer flexible financing solutions to its customers.

Shaping the future of mining

With its innovative technology, unwavering commitment to quality, and dedication to sustainability, Zero Automotive, under Dave Mitchell’s leadership and with a dedicated team of engineers and technicians, is at the forefront of driving positive change in the mining sector. By providing reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions, the company is not only reshaping the way mining operations are conducted but also paving the way towards a cleaner, greener future for generations to come.

With Mitchell’s vision and expertise guiding the way, it is poised to play a pivotal role in accelerating the transition towards electric vehicles in underground mining operations, both in Australia and beyond, setting a new standard for sustainable transportation in the mining industry.

2024 NEW

MAGIC AWAITS

2024 is revving up to be the most exciting year on record for new zero and low emission vehicles in Australia.

All eyes are on the headline EV arrivals, such as the Volkswagen ID.3, ID.4 and ID.5, the Kia EV5 and 2024 EV9, as well as the Volvo EX30. Then, there’s the upper end of the market, with Porsche, Mercedes and BMW adding to the excitement.

The mid-year arrival of the ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs will mark the debut of Volkswagen electric vehicles sold in Australia. However, while images of new-look VW ID3 hatchback have been in the market for a year,

VW diehards will have to wait until late 2024 for its Australian release. But if quirky and fun is what you’re after, then you’ll love the news that the Kombi-style ID Buzz will land later this year.

The KIA EV5 is an electric SUV that is expected to be priced very competitively, based on the prices in the Chinese market. It will come in three model grades - Air, Earth and GT-Line, in line with the seven-seat 2024 EV9 SUV.

They say good things come in small packages and Volvo is hitting the market with its smallest ever SUV, the entry level EX30, which has a range of 480 km.

For those needing a ‘workhorse’, BYD is expected to start deliveries of its hybrid dual-cab ute in the later part of 2024.

BYD is offering the hybrid powered version first, and an EV model next year. With range tipped to nudge up to 1200 km in hybrid mode, it’s sure to attract attention from regional customers.

BYD says that significant Australian input has gone into the design of the ute. No name as yet (maybe the ‘Roo’?) but we know the price will sit under $100,000. It’s kitted out with a dual-motor ‘DM-i’ hybrid arrangement with a 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine”.

NEW CAR

Hot on the heels of last year’s arrival of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Cadillac will return to Australian shores after a multi-decade absence. It’s the Cadillac Lyriq, a large electric SUV made in the US.

It will be “the first fully-electric vehicle sold in Australia by a General Motors brand”, the Drive website reports. While there’s no news on price and range as this magazine went to print, apparently the sound of a didgeridoo is ‘layered into the Lyriq’s exterior sound’.

Australians love their bigger cars, so the advent of the Audi Q8 E-Tron as a large SUV in the luxury category with a ranging over 400 km is sparking interest.

Keeping to the SUV theme, Australia’s top selling brand –

Toyota – will finally have an EV offering in the form of the bZ4X SUV in 2024. It’s guaranteed to generate considerable interest, given the brand’s local status.

Mercedes-Benz will enter the market with its entry-level EQA and EQB electric SUVs, both of which have received facelifts - along with improved range - ahead of their release.

The BMW iX1 recorded solid sales in 2023 but it’s the new iX2 compact SUV that could be a hit with its ‘coupe’ styling.

In the sports car segment, keep an eye out for the MG Cyberster, as well as the much anticipated Hyundai Ioniq 5N. The latest in Hyundai’s N-car performance brand, which won the 2023 Top Gear car of the year award.

For luxury car brands, Porsche will be launching hybrid models of the Porsche Cayenne and Cayenne Coupe SUV. Carsales.com reports that the “second generation 2024 Porsche Macan has turned to electricity for a high-tech EV power play set to shake up the mid-size luxury SUV segment, but it will come at a cost” – around $40,000 more than the previous petrol model.

For something different, the Polestar 4 is another vehicle that will turn heads. It’s a mid-size SUV with no rear window!

Tesla Model 3 is set to receive updates, Jeep’s Avenger is slated for a second-half introduction, and the list goes on. It’s going to be a big year for zero and low emission vehicles in Oz.

EV SAFETY

IN AUTO WORKSHOPS

Automotive workshops need to adapt to the changing environment to ensure the safe and effective servicing of electric vehicles.

Training and competency

Businesses must ensure that their workers undergo comprehensive training in electric vehicle systems, including battery technology, high-voltage components, and safety protocols. Having workers upskilled in this area will enable them to handle EVs confidently.

As SA’s first dedicated Electric Vehicle Training Centre, the MTA offers a range of training options to cover the above requirements and much more. Below are the courses currently on offer on offer in South Australia and available for Northern Territory MTA members and industry to attend:

• Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle – Operations & Servicing

Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle - Operations &

Servicing - Motor Trade Association SA/NT (mtasant.com.au)

• Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle – Depower & Reinitialise

Hybrid & Battery Electric Vehicle - Depower & Reinitialise - Motor Trade Association SA/NT (mtasant.com.au)

• Q ualified Technician to Automotive Electrician Program

MTA Qualified Technician to Electric Vehicle Technician Program - Motor Trade Association SA/NT (mtasant.com.au)

Safety equipment

In addition to training, workers need to be provided with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate clothing. Furthermore, workshops should

invest in insulated tools designed for electric vehicle repairs to minimise the risk of electrical shocks.

As stated in the Australian Standard 5732:2022, it is also recommended to have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 200 m of the designated working area.

Businesses should purchase an Insulated Rescue Hook which is an essential piece of safety equipment used to grasp an electrocuted person by the waist and bring them back to a safe area without putting other workers at risk. Whilst the hooks are designed for electrical shocks occurring at substations, they are equally applicable to shocks that may occur from EVs.

Safe work procedures

Businesses must develop safe work procedures that describe the tasks involved, identify the hazards and document how the task is to be performed to minimise the risks.

Relevant procedures will depend on the type of work being undertaken; examples include:

• Defining the type of work that may be undertaken within the repair facility and the designated person/s responsible for undertaking or supervising this work

• How to isolate, depower and test the electrical system prior to undertaking work

• Limiting unauthorised access by displaying signage and/or creating exclusion zones when undertaking work on the electrical system

• How to manually move a vehicle within the workshop, such as with the aid of a trolley jack or wheel jacks to prevent rotation of the drive wheels

• Emergency procedures in the event of electric shock, arc flash, fire or contact with battery electrolyte

Workshop setup

Automotive workshops will also need to be modified to accommodate electric vehicles. The recommended accommodations are as follows:

• Designate specific work areas for electric vehicle maintenance

• Install clearly marked high-voltage signage

• Ensure the availability of electric vehicle-specific tools and equipment

• Install barriers to prevent untrained/unauthorised people from accessing these areas

Emergency response planning

Develop and regularly review emergency response plans for electric vehicle incidents. Ensure that all staff

members are familiar with emergency disconnect procedures and evacuation routes in case of a highvoltage system malfunction or fire.

Businesses are encouraged to collaborate with their local emergency services to ensure they are adequately trained and equipped to handle electric vehicle incidents.

Vehicle inspection procedures

Implement thorough inspection protocols for electric vehicles, including:

• Checking the condition of the battery and high-voltage components

• Identifying and addressing potential safety hazards before initiating any repairs

• Verifying that all safety systems are functioning correctly after service

Charging station safety

If your workshop offers EV charging station installations or maintenance, adhere to safety guidelines:

• Verify the integrity of charging cables and connectors regularly

• Provide clear instructions for customers on safe charging practices

• Follow manufacturer guidelines for installing and servicing charging infrastructure

Regular safety audits

Conduct regular safety audits to identify and address potential hazards in the workshop. This includes checking the condition of safety equipment, reviewing policies/procedures, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

The MTA encourages members to be proactive in their approach to electric vehicles. By investing in staff training, infrastructure and emergency response planning, members can confidently navigate the influx of electric vehicles into Australia.

If MTA SA/NT members are looking for assistance with any of the above, including organising a WHS Audit of their premises, please contact our Workplace Relations Team on 8291 2000. For EV training inquiries, please contact our helpful customer service team on 8241 0522.

www.members.mtasant.com.au/ workplace-services

ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES

READY TO ROAR (QUIETLY)

2024 will be a pivotal year when it comes to battery-electric motorbikes – but traditional riders are not expected to lead the EV switch.

Instead, the rise of electric-only bikes is likely to usher in a new type of motorcyclist.

This is the prediction of leading Adelaide motorcycle dealer Mark Flynn ,owner of Coast Powersports in South Australia since 2001.

“The EV side of things is still pretty new to motorcycling,” he said.

“It’s really only minibikes and kids

bikes now, whereas the next 12 months you’ll see the landscape change semi-dramatically with a lot of mainstream motorcycles.”

New entrants

As with the car industry, new players are entering the game.

“The mainstream manufacturers have been the slowest to adapt to the market and the wants of the customers.

“You’ll see brands like Zero, Savic, Super Soco, Energica and Stark VARG.

“It will create opportunities in our industry for people who are potentially not customers at the moment.”

Mark predicted the commuting market might take off first, leading to rapid growth in electric scooters.

“People may want to buy a scooter to ride to an office job in town and feel like they’re doing the right thing by the environment,” he said.

“I think you’ll see the big companies bring out electric scooters in the next 12 months.”

“It will create opportunities in our industry for people who are potentially not customers at the moment.”

Purists welded on

Mark doesn’t expect the traditional motorcyclist to embrace the change.

The “purists” are not yet asking about the emerging technology.

He said people who liked long country rides “are going to have range issues, so they are not interested in electric bikes at this point.

“They want the whole experiencethe acceleration, engine noise and to hear the tyres.”

He said high performance bikes would cost $40,000-$60,000, making them prohibitive for a lot of people.

Personal fan

Mark is already a fan of the electric bike.

He described the torque as “phenomenal” and noted that they are heavy due to the battery, with weight sitting low on the bike.

That meant people needed to ride them differently to a traditional bike.

Mark also highlighted other challenges.

“It’s a little bit scary when you ride one because of the lack of noise.”

“It’s like floating on a cloud, listening to your tyres on the ground.”

However, changing the battery after 7-10 years may present a challenge, with the possibility of needing to dismantle much of the bike to remove the battery.

“If the bike’s value is $10,000 in five years and a $9000 battery replacement is required, walking away becomes an option.”

All eyes are on 2024 to see what’s in store for two-wheelers.

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GOVERNMENT’S NEED

TO HEED RECYCLING WARNINGS

Australian governments continue to be “short-sighted” and are “burying their heads in the sand” about vehicle recycling, at the expense of the environment.

That is the warning from Darran van der Woude, Chair of the Dismantlers Division for MTA SA/NT and an enthusiastic onlooker of EVs.

As Chairman, he is sending the concerns of his peers in a unified voice to Canberra.

He concedes the challenge of recycling EVs is significant. But he warns that well before then, Australia is ill-prepared to cope with the number of ICE (internal combustion engine) vehicles that will need to be recycled as consumers transition to EVs.

The big issue, he said, is a worrying lack of government policy for end-of-life vehicles (ELVs).

“We’re the only first-world country not to have an end-of-life vehicle policy,” Darran said.

“They’ve taken their eye off the ball.

“Pushing the EV factor while ignoring an ELV policy is really short-sighted.

“We told them it was going to be a problem 10 years ago and the problem’s getting worse and they are burying their heads in the sand.

“There are a lot of components to our industry and they aren’t doing the right thing environmentally.

“We’re the only first-world country not to have an end-of-life vehicle policy.”

“There are too many people who are doing the wrong thing and contaminants from vehicles are polluting the environment.

“You’re going to have these ICE vehicles coming off the road as you’re trying to get EVs on the road and these ICE vehicles are going to be going into whatever sector rather than into a committed decommision and recycle facility that is processing the vehicles with environmental best practices.”

Inroads are being made he said, but not quickly enough.

Attitudes

Darran has run River Murray Auto Wreckers since buying the business from his parents in 2008.

He is an active supporter of the EV drive.

“Because they go like a cut snake!” he enthused. “I like my V8s. I like how fast they go. But the progress that’s been made on EVs in the last five years is crazy and if you extrapolate that over the next five years, they’re going to be unstoppable.”

The EV puzzle

The process of recycling EVs, Darran said, is improving. It primarily involves safely removing and recycling their lithium-ion batteries.

“It’s an issue although it’s becoming less and less of an issue and there are several recycling facilities that can break them down into some base stuff and then send the (lithium) sludge overseas.”

But he concedes it’s just one piece of the whole EV puzzle which in Australia is exacerbated by our tyranny of distance.

“It is a complicated and costly exercise and with Australia’s geography, it’s expensive.

“We don’t have the capacity and the flow to make it efficient or financially viable long term at the moment.

“It’s going to take a lot of government incentives and a lot of R and D (research and development) from the private sector to get to that point.”

Ultimately, the consumer bears the expense of battery recycling.

“Whoever recycles it, pays for it. It would be on the end user, the dismantler or the recycler.

He said while the dismantler paid to recycle the battery, the charge to the consumer could actually be worth more than the vehicle was worth.

Training critical

Training remains a key focus for the industry going forward so people aren’t dying when the vehicles are being dismantled pulling these things apart.”

“The voltage is so high that if you’re doing it wrong, you’re just going to zap yourself straight up.”

Global comparison

Darran fears Australia will never be able to compete with the recycling goals already demanded in the European Union.

“Countries like Germany, Netherlands and Japan have some really strict requirements on how much of a vehicle must be recycled.

“I think it’s 92 or 93 per cent by weight.

“If you’ve got a vehicle that’s one tonne, the engine is 200 kg, the gearbox is 100 kg and you’ve re-sold that, that’s 300 kg recycled.

“If you crush the vehicle and the body shell is 400 kg, then you’re still more than 200 kg short of hitting that final number of 93 per cent.

“The issue with copying (the EU model) here is the geography.

“How do you get all these cars from all over the country into an area the size of Victoria for them to be processed?”

Darran doesn’t own an EV – yet.

But as a racing enthusiast, he wants one.

Right now, there are three public charging points in Barmera for the town’s population of around 3000 people.

He believes a national rollout of enough recharge grids to satisfy a country of nearly eight million square kilometres makes the NBN deployment look like building a sandcastle.

“Having the power network to get to each place and not needing a diesel generator on top of the solar to be able to charge these vehicles is going to be a massive logistical issue,” he said.

The MTA’s business partners provide exclusive discounts and benefits to our members. Join as an MTA member today to access these discounts as well as a range of free services, resources and advice.

Contact us on (08) 8291 2000 or email: mta@mtasant.com.au to enquire.

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MTA SA members are eligible for preferential rates on merchant fees, along with access to other business products and services. To find out how CommBank can help your business move forward, contact MTA SA/NT.

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE

Access Programs provides employee assistance and counselling services in person or over the phone. Contact Access Programs to unlock discounted sessional rates for you and your employees.

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As an MTA member, you can now unlock exclusive benefits and pricing when you sign up for an Officeworks 30-Day Business Account.

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Capricorn Society Limited is the largest independent automotive parts buying co-operative in Australia, providing the majority of parts and services to mechanical workshops, service stations and crash repairers throughout the country. Call toll free to find out how you can save your business both time and money.

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MTA has partnered with Lane Communications for a more streamlined print service. MTA Print is your one-stop shop when it comes to taking care of all your industry-specific printing needs. MTA members receive a 20% discount on all products (excluding offers).

SUPERANNUATION

Spirit Super has been the national super fund for the motor trades for over 30 years. With over 321,000 members and $26 billion in funds under management, we’re still driving your super. Issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Pty Ltd (AFSL 238 718, ABN 14 008 650 628). Consider the PDS and TMD available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision

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St John Ambulance is a self-funded charity that cares for the well-being of Australians through the provision of first aid at events, first aid training and products, youth development, and social inclusion programs. MTA members receive discounted first aid training, 15% off first aid kits and restocking and Defibrillator saver bundles.

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MTA members receive exclusive discounts on myenergi chargers such as the popular zappi range.

Commonwealth Bank 13 22 21

Access Programs Employee Assistance Program 8215 6799 accesssa.com.au Officeworks officeworks.com.au/ campaings /mtasa Capricorn 1800 EASIER (1800 327 437) capricorn.coop/

MTA Print 8179 9900 or orders.mta@laneprint.com.au

Spirit Super 1800 005 166 spiritsuper.com.au

St John’s Ambulance 1300 78 5646 stjohnsa.com.au

Myenergi 1300 743 443 myenergi.com/au/ mtamembers

Compare your merchant service today.

With Commonwealth Bank, MTA SA/NT members can receive special discounts on EFTPOS solution.

We can also offer a customised comparison^ of your current merchant service to Commonwealth Bank’s merchant solutions, to help you discover which product is right for you. We have flexible terminal and pricing options to suit your needs today and that can change with you in the future.

To find out how much you could save with Commonwealth Bank, contact MTA SA/NT on 08 8291 2000 or email mta@mtasant.com.au and they’ll put you in touch with a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager.

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