In 2017, the Victorian Government asked Infrastructure Victoria to prepare advice on the infrastructure that may be required to enable highly automated and zero emissions vehicles in the state.
Our final report, published in October 2018, called on the Victorian Government to clear the way for the roll out of driverless and zero emissions vehicles to reap unprecedented benefits for the economy, community and environment.
Our advice and 17 key recommendations seek to help Victoria navigate through the inherent challenges and uncertainties that new technology brings, while maximising the benefits and minimising the risks associated with its introduction.
Our advice indicates that while Victoria is well placed for the roll out of new vehicles, significant investment will be required to fully maximise their potential. This includes:
- Up to $1.7 billion to upgrade mobile networks
- Around $250 million for improved line markings on roads
- At least $2.2 billion for energy network upgrades
While significant, these investments should be viewed in the context of the potential benefits of automated and zero emissions vehicles.
There are many other recommendations where government can take action right now to get Victoria ready for new vehicle technologies. These include integrating on-demand and mobility as a service offerings into the public transport mix, sharing transport data in real time and allowing flexibility in the planning regime to make it easier for people to charge their electric vehicles. All could have an immediate impact and deliver benefits, regardless of how new vehicle technologies roll out.
Click here to download the final advice report.
Click here to view a range of before and after sliders that show how highly automated and zero emissions vehicles could shape our streets.