The state government says it will spend $2.75 million to almost double the length of Queensland's Electric Super Highway (QESH) with 18 new charging sites across the state, many in the North West.
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The extension will allow EV drivers to explore Outback Queensland entirely emissions free, driving tourism and economic recovery.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the sites would play a critical role in supporting the Palaszczuk Government's new Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy.
"By developing the new Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy, we are building on the achievements of our existing electric vehicle strategy: The Future is Electric," Mr Bailey said.
"Since 2017, electric vehicles sales in Queensland have increased more than 1037 per cent - from 417 to 4743 - and use of the QESH is at an all-time high."
Independent community group Solar Citizens welcomed the move but said it doesn't address the biggest barrier which is cost.
"Having enough charging sites is crucial once drivers are on the road, but the reality is many Queenslanders can't yet afford an EV in the first place," they said.
"Other countries are seeing a huge increase in drivers switching to EVs by bringing in incentives to lower the cost, but Australians are being left behind. States have the opportunity to lead the way on the transition to clean transport, just like they're leading on clean energy."
The rollout to places including Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Julia Creek and Hughenden will nearly double the length of the existing QESH network from 2000km to 3800km and once complete, will feature 49 fast charging locations connecting EV drivers across Queensland.
Electric vehicle drivers will be able to take trips from Brisbane to Mount Isa and Longreach to Cairns with charging stations along the way.
The government now wants Queenslanders to have their say on the new Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy at https://www.transporttalk.tmr.qld.gov.au/jfe/form/SV_0P4NqnccOA83C06
The survey closes at 11pm,July 9.
The new QESH charging stations will be located at:
- Charters Towers
- Hughenden
- Julia Creek
- Cloncurry
- Mount Isa
- Goondiwindi
- Stanthorpe
- Winton
- Longreach
- Barcaldine
- Blackall
- Emerald
- Dingo
- Charleville
- Roma
- Miles
- Kingaroy
- Esk
READ ALSO: Plan for solar power plant in Mount Isa
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Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
