On May 2nd, an executive from Toyota, the leading car manufacturer in Australia, stated that electric vehicle technology is not yet mature and that hybrid vehicles are currently a more practical solution.
Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s Sales Director, said in an interview that they support the government’s fuel efficiency standards that limit car emissions and encourage the import of low-emission vehicles. However, he believes that relying solely on electric vehicles is “too simplistic.” He believes that if only zero-emission vehicles are promoted, then millions of Australian consumers will not have suitable options because there is currently no electric vehicle that can meet their needs.
“It’s too early now. Which electric vehicle on the Australian market can tow a 2.5-ton load for 600 kilometers? None exist. If we only turn to zero-emission vehicles, how do we explain to Australians who tow trailers, work with vehicles, drive in rural or mining areas, and need a range of over 200 or 300 kilometers?” Hanley said.
Hanley also clarified that Toyota is not against electric vehicle technology. He also revealed that Toyota will launch its own electric vehicle in Australia by the end of this year. However, he insists that hybrid vehicles are still a more reasonable choice.
“We have talked to the government about this, and I believe we represent the voices of thousands of silent Australian consumers who use vehicles for leisure, towing, and many other activities. I know some lobbying groups accuse us of trying to stop, hinder, or delay the electrification process, but that’s not the case. We are just reflecting the real situation and reality of the market.” Hanley said.
IT Home noticed that the Toyota executive’s comments have received responses from electric vehicle advocates. Behyad Jafari, CEO of the Electric Vehicle Council, said that electric vehicle technology has proven its success in many other countries and is becoming more and more popular in Australia. “When we hear these arguments, we need to pay close attention to the economic interests of car companies. Some companies have not spent time developing electric vehicles, and they don’t have enough knowledge about this issue,” Jafari said.
Lindsay Soutar, an activist from Greenpeace, believes that Australians will no longer accept weak car pollution standards or delayed action. Soutar pointed out that Toyota’s advocacy of hybrid vehicles will also continue to rely on fossil fuels for consumers in the coming decades. “Toyota has lagged behind in pure electric vehicles and has chosen to promote hybrid and fuel cell technology, which will continue to cost consumers the price of fossil fuels in the coming decades. In 2023, it’s ridiculous to still promote gasoline cars in the face of climate and living cost crises. Australians won’t be convinced,” Soutar said.
