Australia has had its first company join EV100, the Climate Group’s global initiative to coordinate leading industries in the transition of company fleets to electric vehicles (EVs).
AGL has become a signatory to EV100, and will transition its fleet of 400 corporate vehicles to 100 per cent electric by 2030.
AGL Chief Operating Officer, Markus Brokhof, said AGL was proud to be the first Australian company to join the global initiative.
“As part of our Climate Statement we have set a target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050,” Mr Brokhof said.
“We know in order to meet this commitment, we need to be investing in smart and clean technologies.
“EVs present a simple and effective solution as part of a cleaner energy future, with the transportation sector currently responsible for up to 19 per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.
“The market fundamentals for EVs continue to grow and an initiative like this presents a big opportunity for industries to take the lead in helping to reduce Australia’s carbon footprint.
“It is the right time to transition our fleet to help reduce our own emissions, as well the subsequent noise and air pollution.
“EV technology and manufacturing are at a point where the vehicles themselves are no longer just for early adopters, and we will begin to see prices fall into line with that of petrol/diesel equivalent vehicles.
“AGL’s commitment under EV100 is part of our growth strategy and our commitment to embrace innovation and technology to ensure we are not only achieving the best solutions for the environment, but also for our employees, customers and shareholders.”
AGL joins a growing group of more than 80 companies around the world focused on the transition to EVs, including Ingka Group (formerly IKEA Group), PG&E, Heathrow Airport, Air New Zealand, HP and Unilever.
Jointly, EV100 members have committed to transition more than 4.7 million vehicles by 2030.
The Climate Group Corporate Partnerships Director, Mike Pierce, congratulated AGL on becoming the first Australian member of EV100.
“Their commitment demonstrates the continued growth of the campaign into new markets, helping to grow demand and accelerate the EV transition around the world,” Mr Pierce said.
“We call on other Australian companies to follow AGL’s leadership and commit to EV100.”