EVs: Raising standards, cutting costs
16.06.2023 - 07:20
In a new report for the Electric Vehicle Council, Mandala unpacks how an effective new vehicle efficiency standard can reduce vehicle emissions and save consumers money. Our analysis found that a well-designed NVES could deliver up to $13.6 billion in savings for Australians over the next decade, and also avoid up to 31 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
This study examines the potential impact of introducing a new vehicle efficiency standard in Australia
Australia needs a strong new vehicle efficiency standard (NVES) to catch up to its global peers and cut costs for motorists Implementing a strong NVES will reduce fuel and maintenance costs for consumers, as well as deliver substantial environmental benefits.
While the NVES would have a relatively modest impact on vehicle prices, this would be more than offset by cost savings over the life of the vehicle – making cars cheaper overall for consumers.
More than 85% of vehicles sold worldwide are covered by a NVES. Australia is currently one of the few developed nations, along with Russia, without a NVES.
The European Union (EU) has the strongest standard, requiring all new vehicles sold by 2035 to be zero-emissions vehicles.
Currently, the EU sells over 200 models of electric vehicles (EV) compared to just over 50 in Australia.
Meanwhile, new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in Australia emit up to 1.5 times more carbon dioxide than those in Europe – leaving a significant market gap between Australia and our global peers.
A strong standard will improve the efficiency of new vehicles and increase the supply of electric vehicles.
To assess the impact of the NVES on consumers, this study considers (a) the emissions intensity of new vehicles; (b) the supply of electric vehicles; and (c) the impact on vehicle prices.
Read our latest posts
The Australian Health and Medical Research Workforce Audit
The Australian Health and Medical Research Workforce Audit provides a detailed snapshot of Australia’s health and medical research workforce, highlighting its characteristics, career pathways, and challenges. Drawing on desktop research, surveys, and profile analysis, the report reveals that approximately 39,690 researchers work in the field, with 65% in traditional university and institute roles and 33% in private and clinical settings. Although women make up 52% of the workforce, only 25% hold senior positions, indicating a gender gap in leadership. Over 40% of researchers are from overseas, adding diversity and global connections, while Victoria employs the most researchers, with a notable underrepresentation in regional and remote areas. Despite a shared passion for research and societal impact, many researchers face challenges with funding and job security, and in the past five years, over 60% have moved into non-research roles where they continue to contribute as leaders and managers in related fields. This audit provides valuable insights into the strengths and development opportunities within Australia’s health and medical research workforce.
12 Nov, 2024
Beyond the visa cap: Why restricting international students won't solve Australia's housing crisis
Our latest report in partnership with Student Accommodation Council examines the impact that the Government’s proposed international student visa caps will have on Australia’s metropolitan rental markets. The report demonstrates that while visa caps would significantly harm Australia's economy, they would do little to address housing affordability. International students comprise only 6% of Australia's rental market, with 39% living outside the general rental market entirely. The proposed caps would reduce metropolitan rents by just $5 per week while costing the Australian economy $4.1 billion in GDP and 22,000 jobs. Universities would face $600 million in annual revenue losses. As Australia's fourth-largest export, international education contributes $63 billion to the economy and supports 335,000 jobs. Rather than capping student numbers, the report recommends addressing housing affordability through targeted policies, including reducing tax barriers to foreign investment in student housing and developing purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) specific legislation. These measures would help maintain Australia's competitive edge while addressing housing pressures through increased PBSA supply.
11 Nov, 2024
Australia’s opportunity in the new AI economy
Our latest research collaboration with Microsoft has just been released, highlighting Australia's most promising opportunities in the new global AI economy. This study identifies key areas where Australia can leverage its strengths in AI applications, AI data centres, and data to drive significant economic growth, create new jobs, and enhance our digital resilience.
7 Nov, 2024
How online retail boosts Australian small and medium businesses
Small and medium businesses (SMBs) power Australia's economy, but they haven't reached their full potential. These businesses - defined as having fewer than 200 employees - employ 66 per cent of our workforce and generate 56 per cent of GDP. However, the productivity rate of SMBs, defined as revenue per worker, is 33 per cent lower than large businesses. Mandala research shows that SMBs that adopt online retail channels earn 2.2 times more revenue and are 45 per cent more productive than their offline peers. Nonetheless, only 12 per cent of all SMBs currently use online retail channels. Because SMBs represent such a large share of the economy, even a small increase in productivity would have big impacts. For example, if SMBs were to increase their adoption rate of online retail channels from 12 per cent to 15 per cent, Australia’s GDP would increase by $1.6B, equivalent to $154 per household each year.
31 Oct, 2024