How quickly can we really change to electric vehicles?

How quickly can we really change to electric vehicles?
The "petrol station" of the future will have EV chargers lined up like these in California. (Image: Depositphoto)
Warren Couillault
I rented an electric car (EV) in Christchurch a couple of weeks ago. The attendant at the counter gave me a slip of paper with 89% written on it, which I was told, having innocently inquired, was the level of the battery charge in the car.  My pointing out that a traditional petrol-powered rental comes with a full tank was met with a smile and apology that, “We didn’t have time to charge it, sir.”  When I then asked about a charger to plug in at the hotel, I was instead given a pamphlet and sign-up details for an ind...

More Opinion

Off-the-shelf AI leading the way
Opinion

Peter Griffin: Off-the-shelf AI leading the way

Long-promised productivity gains from AI will soon be reflected in NZ's economy.

Willis can do more to fix banking competition
Finance

Andrew Body: Willis can do more to fix banking competition

A competitive banking system needs more than lower capital adequacy ratios.

Rātā tests trust boundaries with fund buy
Opinion

David Chaplin: Rātā tests trust boundaries with fund buy

The community trust sector has been veering into more exotic investment territory.

David Chaplin 01 Apr 2025
The roundabout politics of RMA reform
Opinion

Dileepa Fonseka: The roundabout politics of RMA reform

Is there any way to get off this RMA reform roundabout?

Dileepa Fonseka 31 Mar 2025