Transport is one of our largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions and is responsible for 17% of Aotearoa New Zealand’s gross emissions (2021 numbers) Of that 74 % comes from road transport with 43.1% from passenger transport and 29.4% from freight). On average, 326.3 kilotons of CO2 were emitted by transport in each local authority. Each local authority and organisation need to do their share to achieve net zero goals and climate emissions reduction targets. 35% of harmful Nitrogen Oxides (NOX) emissions and 13% of cancerous Particulate Matter (PM2. 5) emissions came from transport. 12% of NOX emissions came from cars alone. Transitioning heavy diesel passengers and freight vehicles to zero emission (at tailpipe) fleets will improve air quality and provide health benefits.

The initial purchase costs of batteries for cars and buses are included in the price of the new vehicles. While the battery costs increase the costs of the electric vehicles, there are new options and business models to lease batteries to avoid this upfront cost. The batteries have been expensive, but they are expected to lower in price over time. The same battery with the same chemical composition and size from 2017 has been getting cheaper; however, as new battery types are being developed and produced with higher capacity and performance, these prices remain high. The new batteries’ range and life is also improving. Lower operating costs offset the higher purchase costs of electric vehicles. It is unlikely that an owner of a new electric car will need to replace the battery as batteries now are expected to last for 8-10 years before being replaced and used in another second life application like stationery storage. In years to come, new batteries will be cheaper, smaller and will perform even better.       

Technology is evolving quickly and by the time many organisations decide to transition, the batteries will be more efficient, lighter and last longer. Vehicle assets will not be subjected to as much vibration and servicing requirements as nowadays, and the chassis and other components will last longer than diesel / petrol vehicles.

Battery electric technology is good for urban buses, delivery vans and trucks, rubbish and recycling collection vehicles. But battery electric technology is not the only option for buses and trucks. Hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) electric vehicles are now available along with other developments to provide sustainable green hydrogen to fuel them. The HFC technology can address concerns with batteries increasing vehicle weight, reducing passenger capacity and payload, and can be used for long-haul trucks and coaches, lower weight and a quick refuel process compared to battery electric powered vehicles. 

Initial survey and high-level assessment of your current state and your aspirations. 

Help in refining the problem definition and engagement with senior leaders / project leads to clarify expectations. Following that, the offer includes:

• 2-day workshop to facilitate high-level co-design process for transition strategy.
• Coaching key staff how to manage transition and assess costs and benefits (based on hourly rates).
• Guide through to the final approval / funding allocation decision, if required (based on hourly rates).
• Regular check-in to discuss progress (some as follow up to workshops and some as additional engagement at hourly rates).