The EV revolution is coming faster than Kiwis think

During the evworld Nz showcase, I had the opportunity to talk to some of the most influential Kiwi EV influencers.

As well as the big Kiwi speakers I also had the chance to listen to Peter Harrow one of the world's leading minds on EVs.

According to Andrew Caseley, EECA chief executive New Zealand is on the cusp of an extremely exciting period.

The timing for the evworld conference was perfect as it was set just as a host of extremely exciting EV announcements were being made.

After Caseley's brief introduction to the conference Peter Harrop, IDTechEx, executive took the stage.

Harrop turned his start-up into a $25 million company and he is one of the world's leading experts on EVs.

He discussed the world EV scene in particular how those changes affect APAC

He states that EVs are more than just cars and trucks.

Rumbas, robots all fall under this category in his opinion.

As well as this, EV hybrids are the gateway to an all EV future.

Harrop estimates that the EV industry will account for a staggering US$1.5 trillion next year as plug-in hybrids are continuing to sell increasingly well.

One of the most interesting point from his discussion was the fact that traditional combustion manufacturers are afraid of the growing EV market.

Harrop saying, "There used to be a misconception among manufacturers that the heavy lifting would have to be done by fuel cells, however, that is total nonsense, EVs do just fine.

"The increasing minority of heavy vehicles are now doing top up charging.

"Pure electric vehicles terrify the industry, people who don't believe in pure electric have essentially signed their own death warrant.

He states that Toyota is setting up their own 'Tesla' within their company.

Toyota previously believed that EVs were not viable yet the industry is doing massive u-turns.

He states that the industry swings by billions of dollars every night.

Harrop continues, "Brand recognition is key, people like the silence and the ability to charge at home."

"China is one of the massive markets pushing the uptake of EVs.

According to Harrop New Zealand is on the right track.

Harrop states, "The days of big car factories may soon be over and this is really relevant to this country.

"EVs may be more expensive to buy but they are way cheaper to run.

"Within four years we may have a much cheaper price.

Heavy lifting vehicles like the autonomous electric rover could exponentially reduce the cost for industry.

Harrop continues, "It's relevant to NZ and you should be thinking about it.

"There might be a sudden demand for EVs, they are all multipliers."

"They predict that in 2040 the last diesel car will be sold.

Tesla Is now valued more than Ford.

Evs are vital to the transport sector and around the world, the uptake of Ev buses is happening, particularly in China.

All the buses in NZ are likely to be electric within five years and New Zealand would still be slightly behind the curve.

Harrop saying, "You'll be able to buy buses very economically from China.

What do you think the uptake for heavy freight will be like?

Freight vehicles are harder, so naturally, the uptake of them will be a bit slower. But it is happening and it may be happening sooner than later.

Why is Hydrogen power not an option?

Hydrogen is too expensive.  No one is going to spend the money when there are more affordable options that are completely viable.

How quickly could the uptake of EVs possibly happen?

The uptake could happen over night all it needs is the 'iPhone' of EVs. With Stranded assets, it could happen really quickly. This means that EVs may become a part of regular life within a year or two.

What would be needed to support an all electric transport sector?

Public transport infrastructure would have to be expanded rapidly. However, solar powered buses could be introduced really quickly and they would help support the early creation of this infrastructure.