MINISTRY LAUNCHES FIJI’S FIRST ECO-FRIENDLY ELECTRIC CAR
FIJI has been spending 19 per cent of its total merchandise bill on fuel alone and the use of electric vehicles will greatly assist to bring this expenditure down. This is needed now more than ever given the rising fuel costs that all sectors of the economy are facing.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment, Dr Mahendra Reddy, while launching Fiji’s first ever eco-friendly electric vehicle at Palas Autohouse in Vatuwaqa, Suva recently.
“While every country wants economic growth to deliver on to its development objective, we must ensure that this growth are pegged on sustainable parameters. It must not compromise the quality of our environment. In this regard, technological development and innovation is key. Today we are gathered here to embrace a new technology for Fiji, the introduction of eco-friendly electric vehicles which is a significant step in the direction of carbon neutrality,” Minister Reddy said.
“I am also informed that in over a year, just an electric car on the roads would save up to 1.5 million grams of carbon dioxide. It is further estimated that, the road transport accounts for around 30 per cent or more of air pollution in many towns and cities around the world - depending upon the populace. It was estimated a few years ago that the annual ridership within the Nausori – Suva Corridor alone was close to 16 million. Electric Vehicles will play a major role in reducing carbon emissions.”
He further added, “These vehicles also reduce the noise pollution - as electric cars are far quieter than the conventional vehicles. Therefore, by driving these vehicles, not only we eliminate emissions into the atmosphere, we also provide a more peaceful environment especially in crowded towns and villages”.
“The vehicle we are all witnessing today is, the new MG ZS EV is the family friendly electric car, designed for those who want all the advantages of a zero emissions vehicle without compromising on practicality or style. I am informed that the vehicle provides the experience of a true electric acceleration, and can enjoy a driving range of up to 263 kilometers from a single charge. Charging can also be done overnight at your home on a 7kW fixed wall charger, taking an estimated 7 hours to fully charge,” Minister Reddy added.
He assured the corporate sector that the Government will continue to support and promote the uptake of electric vehicles and other low-emission transport options.
“These vehicle options will not just reduce climate damaging emissions but will also seriously reduce harmful air pollution. Programs as these will support the Government’s overall drive towards a pollution free and of course carbon neutral economy. Our Government will continue to consider additional measures to increase the uptake of such low emissions vehicle options.”