A record total of more than $11 million will be invested into low emission transport, according to Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods.

The boost is said to be the largest round of new funding from the government’s low emission vehicles contestable fund yet. Woods noted 31 new low emissions transport projects will benefit from the funding, $4.3 million of which is government co-funding and $7.3 million of which is funds from the private sector.

“This round of funding focuses on innovative projects that expand the use and possibilities of electric vehicles and other low emissions technology in the transport space,” Woods said. “It’s about making new technology available to help Kiwis get around, lower our carbon emissions and contribute to our economy.

“From 100% electric campervans for tourists to hydrogen fuel cell powered buses at the Ports of Auckland, to solar panel charged electric vehicles and the trial of smart chargers in people’s homes, we’re backing new technologies that will make a difference,” she noted.

The minister stated the government will also be funding a further 34 new public charging spaces for EVs right around New Zealand, including several at South Island tourism hotspots.

“Transport is responsible for about 18% of New Zealand’s total greenhouse gas emissions, so one of the most effective ways for us to help tackle climate change is to transition our fossil-fuelled transport fleet to run on clean, renewable energy sources,” Woods added.