Dhelkaya Health is accelerating the take-up of zero-emission vehicles by accepting delivery of three battery electric cars for use by Maldon Hospital staff as part of a statewide Andrews Labor Government drive.

Nurses, other staff and volunteers will use the Hyundai Kona Electric models to visit and transport patients in the community as Victoria charges towards a target of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) making up 50 per cent of all light vehicle sales by 2030.

The Labor Government’s fleet conversion is backed by a $15 million investment to add 400 ZEVs and associated charging stations over two years.

To help spark community interest in the take-up of sustainable transport, the Government will make the ZEVs available for public purchase at the end of their lease.

Replacing existing petrol and diesel cars, the new Konas have a 480km range which will enable staff to make long trips for outpatient work or meetings without the need to charge en route. The vehicles have dedicated charging stations at Maldon Hospital.

Maldon Hospital is a vital part of its community, providing acute medical services, a minor injuries and illnesses clinic, residential aged care, community health services and social support.

In addition to reducing emissions to make our towns, cities and regions more liveable, the ZEVs will also deliver ongoing savings due to having lower maintenance and running costs than their petrol or diesel predecessors.

Victorian-based industry expert JET Charge is fast-tracking the government fleet’s transition as the contractor supplying and installing the charging infrastructure. The 7kW charging stations are manufactured in Victoria.

The Government has also invested $19 million in grants to expand the publicly accessible fast-charging network, including several locations in the Maldon region.

Under the Government’s $100 million ZEV Roadmap, more than 5,000 Victorians have taken up subsidies of $3,000 on the purchase of eligible ZEVs with sales in 2021 jumping 310 per cent.

Quote attributable to Assistant Treasurer Danny Pearson

“We’re helping Dhelkaya Health to drive towards a zero-emissions future, protecting the environment and saving money that can be put back into the community.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio

“This is an important step towards ZEVs making up half of all light vehicle sales by 2030, part of our nation-leading climate action which will see us slash emissions by 50 per cent by the same year.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“Maldon Hospital is a vital part of the community and we’re proud to support the hospital’s staff and programs with this initiative.”

Quotes attributable to Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race

“Dhelkaya Health is working hard to reduce our environmental footprint and the ZEV vehicles are an important part of this work.”

“As a member of the Global Green and Healthy Hospitals network, we’re excited that Maldon Hospital is leading the way to more sustainable practices.”