Government

We know playing with your phone while driving can be dangerously distracting but a group of British MPs are calling for the UK’s ban on phone use while driving to be extended to hands-free devices. The report from the Transport Committee states there’s evidence even a hands-free device creates the same risks of crashing as holding one’s mobile phone while driving.

The car industry has slammed a proposal by the Victorian Government to slug vehicles priced over $100,000 with an additional tax – on top of the 10 per cent GST on the total cost and 33 per cent Luxury Car Tax already charged on every dollar above $66,331. UPDATE, 27/5/19: The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has made a statement regarding the proposed changes to taxes on new vehicles in Victoria. See bottom of article for details.

Carlos Ghosn's push to make the relationship between Nissan and Renault stronger was undermined by Nissan executives and the Japanese Government, according to emails leaked to Bloomberg. The emails reveal the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry was concerned merger plans would disproportionately benefit Renault and its largest shareholder, the French state.

The New South Wales Government has announced a major election promise today, confirming a not insignificant investment in its electric vehicle fleets and the state's growing EV charging network. If successful in the March 23 election, the NSW Liberal party claims its Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Plan will include a $3 million co-investment in fast charging points on major regional corridors, along with $2 million on chargers in commuter car parks.

Volkswagen is turning to dealers in its push for revised emissions standards Down Under, arming dealer principals with a sternly-worded letter to hand their local member of parliament ahead of next year's Federal Election. The company has been one of the most vocal campaigners for revised legislation around vehicle emissions and fuel quality in Australia, lest we join what it's dubbed the 'automotive third world'.