New laws designed to encourage the introduction of new cars with efficient engines and lower emissions are already having an impact on the market.
Before the new laws were introduced, a former Volkswagen Group Australia spokesman was quoted as saying that Australia was becoming a dumping ground for old, dirty engines – as automakers had no incentive to bring their latest engine technologies here.
But Nathan Johnson, Volkswagen Commercial brand director, said so Daily Sparkz The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) has helped reshape the new car landscape in Australia.
“The introduction of NVES has definitely helped us further develop our powertrains,” he said.
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“And I will be completely transparent about this – until NVES, we were not considered for (battery electric vehicles) and (plug-in hybrid vehicles).”
“Since introducing (NVES), it has gone from a ‘never’ conversation with the factory to a daily conversation with the factory, which is a huge benefit to us,” Mr Johnson explained.
But while emissions standards have added complexity behind the scenes, Volkswagen says the result is far better for both automakers and buyers.
“I think it’s only positive from a Volkswagen perspective and we’re now at the table earlier for a lot of these (product planning) discussions – and I can only see it as a positive development going forward.”
Acting general manager of corporate communications Daniel DeGasperi added that although only a limited number of hybrid and electric cars are being built worldwide, emissions regulations are expected to tighten in global markets in the coming years.
“Being part of the Volkswagen Group with all of our brands is a big advantage because we have a lot of leverage in this regard and can also negotiate better prices with the factories.”
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