Antonella Abbate • 13 March 2024

Australian Federal Government's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard

A Divisive Issue Among Local OEM Distributors

In a move aimed at combating climate change and reducing carbon emissions, the Australian Federal Government recently proposed the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES). This initiative, however, has stirred up a significant division among local Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) distributors. While some support the NVES as a necessary step towards sustainability, others vehemently oppose it, citing concerns about its potential impact on the automotive industry and consumer choice.


The NVES proposes stringent regulations mandating improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions for vehicles sold in Australia. Under this standard, car manufacturers would be required to meet specific targets for the average fuel consumption and emissions of their fleet. The goal is to encourage the adoption of cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles, ultimately contributing to a greener transportation sector.


Those in favor of the NVES argue that it represents a crucial step towards addressing Australia's environmental challenges. With transportation being a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, implementing stricter efficiency standards is essential for reducing the country's carbon footprint. Proponents also highlight the potential benefits for consumers, including lower fuel costs over the lifetime of the vehicle and a broader selection of eco-friendly options.


Moreover, supporters of the NVES emphasize the global trend towards cleaner transportation and the need for Australia to align with international standards. By implementing these regulations, the country can demonstrate its commitment to sustainability and remain competitive in the global automotive market.


However, not all OEM distributors share this enthusiasm for the NVES. Some industry players argue that the proposed standards place undue burdens on manufacturers and could stifle innovation. They express concerns about the feasibility of meeting the stringent targets within the proposed timeframe, especially for smaller manufacturers with limited resources.


Additionally, opponents of the NVES raise questions about its potential impact on consumer choice and affordability. They fear that the regulations could limit the availability of certain vehicle models or drive up prices, ultimately disadvantaging Australian consumers. Furthermore, there are concerns that the transition to more fuel-efficient vehicles may overlook the needs of certain segments of the population, such as rural communities reliant on larger vehicles for practical purposes.


Moreover, critics of the NVES point out the potential economic ramifications for the automotive industry. They argue that the increased regulatory burden could lead to job losses and reduced competitiveness for local manufacturers, particularly in the face of global competition.


The division among local OEM distributors reflects the complex trade-offs involved in implementing environmental policies in the automotive sector. While there is broad consensus on the need to address climate change and reduce emissions, the specific mechanisms for achieving these goals can provoke disagreement and debate.


Ultimately, finding common ground between supporters and opponents of the NVES will require careful consideration of the trade-offs involved. Balancing environmental objectives with economic concerns and consumer preferences is no easy task. However, with constructive dialogue and collaboration between policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental advocates, it may be possible to develop a regulatory framework that promotes sustainability while safeguarding the interests of all involved parties.

Australia’s EV Love Affair Accelerates – and China is Leading the Charge

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
Across the Tasman this week, Chinese automotive giant BYD confirmed that almost 5,000 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are currently bound for Australia aboard its own dedicated vehicle carrier, the BYD Zhengzhou. The shipment, carrying 4,810 vehicles, marks the first Australian voyage of one of BYD’s purpose-built roll-on/roll-off vessels and is expected to dock in Melbourne before continuing to Sydney and Brisbane. What makes this story significant is not simply the size of the shipment, but what it says about the Australian market. BYD has already announced plans to bring an additional 30,000 new-energy vehicles to Australia in the coming months as demand for electric vehicles and hybrids continues to surge. For decades, Australian motorists were among the most loyal supporters of Japanese manufacturers, with brands from Toyota, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Honda dominating local driveways. Few industry observers would have predicted that Chinese brands would achieve such rapid acceptance. Yet Australian consumers have embraced brands such as BYD, MG, GWM, Chery, Geely, Zeekr and others with remarkable speed, treating many of them as though they have been established players for generations. Australia’s transition mirrors trends seen throughout Europe and North America, where consumers are increasingly seeking lower running costs, improved technology, longer warranties and electrified drivetrains. The difference in Australia is that much of this growth is being driven by Chinese manufacturers rather than traditional Western brands. Affordability, strong specifications, competitive warranty programs and rapid product development have reshaped buyer perceptions almost overnight. BYD’s decision to deploy its own shipping fleet to Australia is perhaps the clearest signal yet that global manufacturers now view Australia as a strategic growth market. When a manufacturer is prepared to invest in dedicated logistics to deliver thousands of vehicles directly to Australian customers, it demonstrates confidence not only in its products but also in the appetite of Australian motorists for electrified transport. The message is simple: Australia's EV and hybrid revolution is no longer coming—it has arrived, and Chinese manufacturers are playing a leading role in shaping the next chapter of the nation's automotive landscape.

Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) announces new appointments

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
Mr Lamb brings decades of diverse leadership experience across various sectors, both domestically and internationally. Most recently, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Murray-Darling Association. Previously, Mr Lamb has held several executive roles with distinct peak body organisations, where he worked closely with government and industry. During his tenure, assisted many organisations to transition into new strategies and methodologies. With his notable experience, he is well positioned to lead the ARC at a time when the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) industry is growing at a rapid pace. Mr Lamb succeeds Glenn Evans, who concluded his tenure in December 2025 after 17 years of service. ARC Chair Dr Greg Picker said he was pleased to welcome Mr Lamb to mark the next phase for the Council, which leads national governance of the RAC (also known as ARCtick) Permit Scheme. “The Board is pleased to appoint Mark Lamb as our new CEO. We look forward to working with him as we continue to deliver the ARCtick permit scheme and improve our service to industry. His passion and experience in leading peak body organisations perfectly aligns with the ARC’s priorities at this time and our vision for the future,” Dr Picker said. “It is a crucial time for the industry, and the Board is confident Mark will help us build on our momentum and continue deliver meaning outcomes for the ARC and the broader industry.”  Commenting on his appointment, Mr Lamb said, “I am thrilled to be given this opportunity to play this significant role, not just at the Australian Refrigeration Council, but in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry.

BWM's Milestone

by Antonella Abbate • 25 May 2026
For a company long associated with precision internal combustion performance engines and premium driving dynamics, the production of BMW Group’s two millionth fully electric vehicle is far more than a symbolic milestone. It represents a major industrial transition within one of Europe’s most engineering-driven automotive manufacturers.