The Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the DEECA Energy Safety Review, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based policy decisions regarding electric vehicles (EVs) during the transition to renewable energy. The submission highlights several key points:
Energy Safety
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EV Fires: Incidence and Risk Management
- EV fire incidents are extremely rare, with analysis showing only 0.0012% of passenger EVs experienced battery fires between 2012-2020, compared to 0.1% for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles (80 times higher risk for ICE).
- Australian EV fire incidents (six verified until May 2024) were not caused by charging or spontaneous explosions.
- Advanced battery management systems (BMS) and stringent Australian Design Rules (ADRs) ensure high safety standards for EVs.
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National Construction Code (NCC)
- Clear and consistent standards for EV charging infrastructure are essential to support efficient deployment without compromising safety.
- Current NCC barriers (e.g., "special hazard" clauses, fire safety requirements) are unnecessary given EV safety levels and should be revised.
- Recommendations include clarifying "special hazard" status and adjusting NCC clauses (E1D5, E1D9, etc.) to remove installation barriers.
- Integration of NCC EV readiness requirements into state legislation is encouraged for a consistent regulatory environment.
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Manufacturer and Installer Standards
- High product safety and testing standards for manufacturers, and rigorous installation standards for installers, are crucial to ensure reliability and safety.
Transitioning the Mechanics Workforce
- Upskilling mechanics for EVs should be voluntary, with training included for new graduates.
- Current arrangements (automotive qualifications + EV safety training) are effective; mandatory electrician accreditation is unnecessary unless evidence shows specific gaps.
Micromobility vs. EVs
- Micromobility devices (e-bikes, e-scooters) should not be conflated with EVs due to different risk profiles and regulatory regimes.
- Safety issues in micromobility (e.g., battery fires from mishandling or uncertified chargers) should be addressed separately through product safety standards and public awareness campaigns.
Conclusion
- The EVC urges DEECA to adopt a data-driven, proportionate approach to EV safety, recognizing that EVs do not pose unmanageable risks compared to ICE vehicles.
- Existing frameworks (standards, codes, training) are effective; focus should be on refining standards and supporting education rather than imposing new burdens.
- Public education is critical to dispel myths and ensure safe adoption of EV technology.
- Victoria can ensure a safe and successful EV transition with an evidence-based strategy.
