A new study estimates a reduction in emissions of only 35-45% of pre-COVID levels by 2050. Lighter vehicles and faster uptake of electric vehicles can dramatically improve progress towards net zero.

Our study used the Australian Fleet Model and the net zero vehicle emission model.

One neglected issue is the growing proportion of big, heavy passenger vehicles.

Reducing vehicle weights and optimising energy efficiency in transport will be essential to meet emission targets.

Our study suggests Australia is on track to miss the net-zero target for 2050 mainly because of the large proportions of fossil-fuelled vehicles and large and heavy passenger vehicles.