Antonella Abbate • 14 March 2024

Accelerating EV Adoption

Europcar Mobility Group Paves the Way with Ambitious Charging Infrastructure Rollout in Australia

Australia's electric vehicle (EV) landscape is on the brink of a monumental shift, as the Europcar Mobility Group, a leading vehicle rental company in the country, announces plans for a widespread installation of EV chargers. With a vision to drive sustainable mobility and cater to the growing demand for electric vehicles, Europcar's ambitious initiative is poised to reshape the transportation sector and accelerate the adoption of EVs across the nation.


The scale of Europcar's undertaking is nothing short of impressive. The company plans to deploy 256 chargers across at least 41 sites nationwide, encompassing both urban centers and regional locations. This comprehensive charging infrastructure network will play a pivotal role in facilitating the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, addressing critical concerns such as range anxiety and accessibility to charging facilities.


One of the most noteworthy aspects of Europcar's initiative is its commitment to inclusivity, with a significant emphasis on expanding EV infrastructure beyond major metropolitan areas to include regional locations. By extending the reach of EV charging facilities to regional communities, Europcar is not only enhancing accessibility but also fostering equitable access to sustainable transportation solutions across diverse geographical landscapes.


Moreover, Europcar's investment in EV infrastructure is complemented by its ambitious plans to introduce approximately 3,100 passenger electric rental vehicles into its fleet over the next three years. This strategic deployment of electric rental vehicles underscores the company's commitment to providing customers with a diverse range of sustainable mobility options while significantly reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles.


The timing of Europcar's initiative couldn't be more opportune, as Australia stands at a pivotal juncture in its transition towards a low-carbon future. With increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and the urgent need to mitigate the impacts of climate change, the adoption of electric vehicles has emerged as a key priority for policymakers, businesses, and consumers alike.


Europcar's bold move not only aligns with broader national objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also positions the company as a trailblazer in the transition to sustainable transportation. By investing in EV infrastructure and expanding its electric vehicle fleet, Europcar is demonstrating leadership and foresight in navigating the evolving automotive landscape while meeting the evolving needs and expectations of its customers.


Furthermore, Europcar's initiative is poised to have far-reaching economic implications, driving job creation, fostering innovation, and stimulating investment in clean energy technologies. As Australia embraces the electrification of transportation, opportunities abound for collaboration and partnership among industry stakeholders to realize the full potential of a greener, more sustainable future.


In conclusion, Europcar Mobility Group's ambitious plans to install EV chargers and deploy electric rental vehicles herald a new era of sustainable mobility in Australia. By investing in infrastructure, embracing innovation, and prioritizing environmental stewardship, Europcar is paving the way for a cleaner, greener transportation landscape that benefits both present and future generations. As the momentum towards electrification gathers pace, Europcar's bold initiative serves as a shining example of proactive leadership and commitment to driving positive change in the automotive industry and beyond

by Antonella Abbate 10 July 2026
Tickets are now on sale for Wire & Gas 2026, with VASA and The Automotive Technician (TaT) confirming a full three-day programme at The Westin Brisbane from 31 July to 2 August. The event, co-hosted for the first time by both organisations under the theme ‘Better Together’, brings together automotive air-conditioning technicians, auto electricians and thermal management specialists from across Australia and New Zealand for training, networking and industry updates. VASA and TaT members can register for $995 + GST, with non-member tickets priced at $1,195 + GST. A Social Pass covering the Friday cocktail party and trade show plus the Saturday Gala Awards Dinner is available for $349 + GST. Non-members have the option to purchase discounted VASA or TaT membership at registration to unlock member pricing and ongoing benefits. VASA President Brett Meads said the TaT partnership had raised the bar for what Wire & Gas could deliver. “TaT and VASA have a long history of collaboration and share a common goal: supporting automotive technicians and workshop owners to build their skills and grow their businesses,” Mr Meads said. “By combining our networks and expertise, we can deliver a bigger, better Wire & Gas with high-quality training, new topics and more opportunities for technicians to connect with their peers and industry partners. “This is what ‘Better Together’ is all about.” Programme at a glance Friday 31 July: Opening Night The event opens with a cocktail party and trade show, followed by a panel discussion marking the launch of the updated Australian Automotive Air Conditioning Code of Practice. Panellists include Kylie Farrelley (Refrigerant Reclaim Australia), Dr Greg Picker (Refrigerants Australia / Australian Refrigeration Council), Lesley Yates (AAAA) and Jeff Smit (TaT). Saturday 1 August: Technical Training The full-day technical programme features four in-depth 1.5-hour sessions, with a trade show running during morning tea and lunch: ● Clint Flower: Diagnosing modern automotive HVAC systems ● Clinton Brett: AdBlue (SCR) emissions-control technology for diesel vehicles ● Brendan Sorensen: 48V to BEV: Electrified Diagnostic Triage Framework ● Scott Thomas: Vehicle Security Systems: A Workshop Guide The Saturday evening Gala Awards Dinner will feature live acoustic music, the REDARC Young Technician of the Year Award, the VASA Grant Hand Industry Mentor Award, the VASA Pioneer Award and a race sim champion and trade show prize draw. More awards are to be announced. Sunday 2 August: Seminars The closing half-day covers business and industry topics, with sessions from Lesley Yates on best practices and industry cohesion, Jeff Smit on the EV and hybrid market from an aftermarket perspective, a refrigerant and regulation panel with Kylie Farrelley and Dr Greg Picker, and Geoff Mutton on enhancing workshop productivity. TaT co-founder Jeff Smit said the programme reflected the combined training strengths of both organisations. “Wire & Gas has established itself as the must-attend event for the auto electrical and air-conditioning trades, and we’re thrilled to be joining forces with VASA to take it to the next level,” Mr Smit said. “TaT will be bringing our training expertise, presenter network and broad membership base to the table, with a focus on delivering practical, hands-on sessions that attendees can take straight back to the workshop. “We’re looking forward to welcoming both VASA and TaT members, and the broader industry, to Brisbane in July.” Accommodation VASA has negotiated special room rates for Wire & Gas attendees at The Westin Brisbane at $325 per night (room only, super king or twin) and the adjoining Four Points by Sheraton at $225 per night (room only, king or twin). Optional extras include breakfast ($30 per person at The Westin; $25 at Four Points), a rollaway bed for $80 per night, and valet parking at $60 per vehicle per day. All accommodation prices include GST. Discounted rates are valid for three days before and after the event, subject to availability. Cool Mavericks book signing Authors Mark Mitchell and Ken Newton will be signing copies of Cool Mavericks, which traces the evolution of automotive air-conditioning and the pioneers who shaped it. Books will also be available for purchase or collection at the event. Sponsors and exhibitors With the combined reach of the VASA and TaT networks, sponsorship and exhibition opportunities are expected to fill quickly. Organisations wanting to connect with the calibre of automotive repair professionals Wire & Gas is known for attracting should contact Jill Johnson at jj@jkjmedia.com.au or on 0409 217 624. Tickets and accommodation can be booked at WireAndGas.com
by Antonella Abbate 8 July 2026
The Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers (IAME) wishes to advise members and industry partners that Mr Peter Blanshard is no longer employed by the IAME , effective 7 July 2026 . The Board wishes to extend its best wishes to him for the future. The Board has enacted transition arrangements to ensure continuity across all operational areas, including member services, supplier and industry partnerships, RTO operations, and government engagement. Redirecting Communications To ensure enquiries are directed appropriately and responded to promptly, members and stakeholders are asked to redirect any communication previously addressed to the CEO to the following contact: IAME Auburn Office (NSW) unit 5, 340 Chisholm Road Auburn NSW 2144 Phone: (02) 9782 1100 Email: inbox@iame.com.au The IAME Board appreciates the cooperation and understanding of our members during this period of transition. We remain committed to delivering strong industry leadership and high‑quality support across the automotive and training sectors. Kind regards, The IAME Board
by Antonella Abbate 8 July 2026
By Dean Rothapfel - Oceania Country Manager  Motul Asia Pacific