Dhelkaya Health accelerates the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by accepting the delivery of three battery electric cars for Maldon Hospital personnel.
In a statement, the Victorian Government said the delivery of three ZEVs are part of its statewide initiative.
Nurses, other employees, and volunteers will use the Hyundai Kona Electric models to visit and transport patients in the community as Victoria works towards a goal of zero-emissions vehicles accounting for 50 per cent of all light vehicle sales by 2030.
“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,” Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said.
The Victorian Government’s fleet conversion is supported by a $15 million investment over two years to build 400 ZEVs and related charging stations.
“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,” Assistant Treasurer Danny Pearson said.
The State Government will make the ZEVs accessible for public purchase at the end of their lease to help inspire community interest in sustainable transportation.
The new Konas, which will replace older petrol and diesel vehicles, has a 480km range, allowing workers to travel long trips for outpatient work or meetings without needing to charge en route. Maldon Hospital has specific charging outlets for the vehicles.
With its acute medical services, minor injuries and illness clinic, residential elderly care, community health services, and social assistance, Maldon Hospital is an essential element of its community.
“Maldon Hospital is a vital part of the community, and we’re proud to support the hospital’s staff and programs with this initiative,” Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards stated.
The ZEVs will provide continued savings because they have lower maintenance and operating expenses than their petrol or diesel predecessors, improving the quality of life in Victorian towns, cities, and regions while also cutting emissions.
As the supplier and installer of the charging infrastructure, Melbourne-based JET Charge is hastening the transition of the Government fleet. Victoria is where the 7kW charging stations are made.
Several places in the Maldon area are now part of the publicly accessible fast-charging network, which has received funds totalling $19 million from the State Government.
Over 5,000 Victorians have benefited from $3,000 in subsidies under the Government’s $100 million ZEV Roadmap, and sales of qualifying ZEVs are expected to increase by 310 per cent by 2021.
Dhelkaya Health CEO Sue Race said Dhelkaya Health is making a lot of effort to lessen its environmental impact, and ZEV vehicles are a significant component of this effort.
“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,” Race stated.
