Volkswagen Group Australia Endorses National Vehicle Efficiency Standard for 2025

The Federal Government of Australia has announced plans to introduce a National Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), set to take effect from January 1, 2025. 

In response, Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA), representing brands such as Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, and CUPRA, has expressed its readiness to adapt to the forthcoming regulations. 

VGA's Managing Director, Karsten Seifert, highlighted the company's global commitment to the Paris Climate agreements and its goal to become carbon-neutral by 2050.

He also mentioned VGA's preference for a regulatory model that includes Option B, supplemented by super credits for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs).

The government's call for submissions on which model to legislate indicates a move towards aligning Australia's automotive standards with global environmental commitments. 

The company plans to introduce up to 10 BEV variants across its brands in the Australian market this year, indicating a shift towards more sustainable vehicle options. 

However, VGA also noted that conventional vehicles such as utes, SUVs, cars, and vans will continue to play a significant role in its business strategy, ensuring a range of mobility choices for Australian consumers.