Green car partnership a win for industry

AEEMA has welcomed Federal Labor's proposed $500 million "˜Green Car Innovation Fund', which would enable the automotive industry to play a key role in addressing climate change.

Electronics in hybrid vehicles and telematics platforms could offer a winning combination for addressing the challenges of climate change that would enable Australia to lead the world in the development of green car technology and support, according to AEEMA chief executive, Angus M Robinson.

"Australia's emerging telematics industry is poised to undertake projects which can contribute to better management of traffic flows and, in turn, reduce vehicle emissions," Robinson said.

Road vehicles currently contribute 13% of the nation's greenhouse gas emissions.

Australia does not produce hybrid, flexible fuel or low emission diesel vehicles. However, Australians are demanding greater fuel efficiency in their cars.

"The Federal Opposition's proposed plan would help the industry to boost research on fuel efficiency and vehicle manufacture that reduces carbon emissions, and at the same time provide our industry with opportunities for global expansion," Robinson said.

Under the initiative, industry will be asked to match a $500 million government contribution on a one-to-three dollar basis.

"Our members "“ many of whom are the leaders in automotive telematics "“ are already committed to "˜cleaner, greener and smarter manufacturing'," Robinson said.

"As our knowledge of climate change grows, it is vital that government and industry work together to respond, through research and technology."