CLIMATE SPECTATOR: Why size doesn't matter with EVs

The argument that large electric cars don't fit with an energy constrained future misses the point that EVs, whatever the size, are the perfect customer for renewable energy.

By Alison Terry ·
18 Jan 2012

Climate Spectator

Should all electric cars be small? That's the suggestion made by Ross Blade in his article published on Business Spectator this week (Why large EVs may cook the planet, January 17), which paints a dark picture of a future with big electric cars.

But the article misses the point that electric cars, whatever the size, are the perfect customer for renewable energy – they are a catalyst for change because they help make the grid green. The mass adoption of electric transport powered by renewables would help to smooth grid load and support investment in further renewable capacity.

For our part, Better Place is committed to using renewable energy in our EV network. We signed our first $60 million deal with ActewAGL in the ACT last year and we'll sign more as we expand our network across Australia. We'll use this energy to serve every electric car with a plug, whether it's made by Renault, Nissan, Mitsubishi, GM Holden, or Blade Electric Vehicles.