High Commissioner Hopeful More Will Own Electric Vehicles

British High Commissioner Dr Brian Jones brought in a 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 SUV supporting an environmentally friendly and cost-effective mode of transport.

While the Volkswagen ID.4 SUV is the second model of electric cars under the Volkswagen ID Series, Mr Jones is the first diplomat here to own an electric vehicle.

The vehicle can drive up to 250 miles before it requires recharging.

Given that diplomats travel around a lot, cars like these are a must as they are not fuelled by diesel and the parts can be easily disposed or recycled, Mr Jones said.

We are going to be driving around Fiji, partly to demonstrate that electric cars are low cost and effective and can still do the distance that you need to drive yourself and your family to work, he said.

Hopefully, the idea of electric vehicle will take off in Fiji.

British High Commissioner Dr Brian Jones (right) during the handover of his new 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 SUV.

Mr Jones said: The Russian invasion of Ukraine has affected the crude oil prices which means people will have to pay more for their fuel and kerosene.

The more we can move to electric vehicles over time the better it is for the climate and people’s pockets.

I know some hotels have ordered theirs, one of the banks has got theirs and tourism Fiji has got one as well.

Mr Jones said the second part of their plan was to put solar panels on their building in Suva so charging the car will be free.

That’s another advantage of using green energy, he said.

The final part of plan is the regulation and taxation and everything else which will sit with the government.

Feedback:  Beranadeta@fijisun.com.fj