Move to electric transport for business
Transitioning to electric transport is a practical way to embrace a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective future. Whether it's bikes, cars, vans, trucks, buses, or forklifts, switching to electric reduces emissions and operational costs. With solar panels, you can even charge your vehicles on-site using clean energy.
The Australian Electric Vehicle Association is a great resource for staying up to date with what’s happening with EVs of all types.
Bicycles and electric bikes (e-bikes)
Bikes of any type can be a fast and efficient way of getting around a large site, getting to off-site meetings or running local errands and deliveries. e-bikes require less effort for longer distances, are accessible for less confident riders, and help you avoid arriving sweaty.
If you’re considering an e-bike but unsure where to start, watch our e-bike Q & A recording. It features a range of e-bike users and providers and includes information around affordability, cargo carrying and converting from a traditional bike.
For further guidance, read What to know before buying an electric bike by Choice.
For more information and support including free monthly bike checks, bike skills workshops, handy maps and more check out our bike riding and walking page.
Electric vehicles
When purchasing a new vehicle, consider going electric. The range of electric cars is growing, with increasing options for commercial vehicles like vans, utes, buses, and trucks. Electric forklifts have long been an option and are a great way to reduce indoor pollution.
Check reviews and read specifications carefully to make sure the vehicle can meet your needs. If nothing suitable is available on the market, it might be better to retain your existing vehicles a bit longer until something arrives, or look into importing. You can read a case study about how local business CERES Fair Food worked with The Good Car Co to import delivery vans that weren’t yet readily available in the Australian market.
Leasing an electric vehicle
Australian tax laws introduced late in 2022 can make buying a new electric vehicle through a novated lease much more affordable. You may be able to offer this as a staff benefit.
Charging options for electric vehicles
The easiest way to charge your electric vehicle is on-site, if you have access to off-street parking. If you have a solar power system, make the most of your free power by charging during the day. You can read about how La Trobe University has set up a network of fast chargers for their staff to be able to travel between campuses here.
If you don’t have access to off-street parking, you can find out more about where you can charge your electric car for free with 100% renewable energy in Darebin or check out Plug Share for general charging options.
Darebin has developed an Electric Vehicle Charging Policy that encourages electric car and bike charging in new developments, as well as setting guidelines for how we will facilitate the expansion of the public EV charging network in Darebin.
More information