As part of the ACT governments push for zero-emissions vehicles, the Greens want local jurisdictions to join a "bulk buy" purchase of electric cars for government fleets.
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In April, the government published The ACT’s Transition to Zero Emissions Vehicles Action Plan 2018-2021.
The government wants at least 50 per cent of all newly leased government fleet passenger vehicles to be zero-emissions vehicles in 2019-20 and all newly leased vehicles to be zero-emissions vehicles from 2020-21.
Climate change minister Shane Rattenbury said as of March 2018, there were 680 cars in the ACT government passenger vehicle fleet. Of that, 17 were battery electric vehicles, seven plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and 62 hybrid vehicles.
"Local jurisdictions are at the frontline of climate change impacts, and are well-placed to implement climate change solutions," Mr Rattenbury said.
"That’s why I’ve reaffirmed offer to other jurisdictions to work with the ACT, and enhance our bargaining power to get the best prices for electric vehicles.
He said working with other councils would strengthen the negotiating position.
Under the plan, the government wants to work with local and state governments to facilitate the installation of charging stations on major routes to and from Canberra, including routes to Sydney and the coast, tackling so-called "range anxiety" and promoting regional tourism.
Mr Rattenbury said the shift to zero emissions vehicles would help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and reduce noise pollution.
He said by 2020, emissions from transport was estimated to account for over 60 per cent of ACT emissions.
