For the first time, the mayoral vehicle in the Eurobodalla is electric – and Mathew Hatcher is a big fan. Photo: ESC.
Now he has experienced an electric vehicle, Eurobodalla Mayor Mathew Hatcher couldn’t imagine driving anything else.
Upon election, the mayor is granted a council-owned car within a budget. For the first time, the mayoral vehicle is electric.
“I thought I would lead by example and promote EVs to the wider community,” Cr Hatcher said.
“Council is also transitioning the fleet, keeping up with the NSW Government’s EV Strategy targets and council’s own Climate Action Plan.”
The Eurobodalla Mayor said the Tesla Model 3 was “incredibly smooth to drive” and its features were better than expected.
“The technology is impressive as well as the range – 600 km to the charge,” he said.
For mayoral duties, Cr Hatcher travels to all corners of the shire, plus trips to Sydney and Canberra.
“I am planning my trips around places having stations – charging is very fast, a lot cheaper and better for the environment,” he said.
Cr Hatcher is yet to install a charging station at his home, so has been making the most out of the NRMA’s free charging network.
“It’s currently free at the Bay Pavilions, which is where I have been going most,” he said.
“EV fast charging stations will soon be located every 100 km on major highways, including the Kings and Princes highways.
“It’s a huge benefit for businesses to have charging stations in their car parks too, as travellers get out and explore while they wait.”
Southcoast Health and Sustainability Alliance (SHASA) congratulated the mayor on his car choice.
“SHASA congratulates Mayor Mathew Hatcher for demonstrating leadership with his decision to drive an electric vehicle,” president Kathryn Maxwell said.
On average, SHASA says electric vehicles are a smarter choice as the owner saves about $1300 per year on fuel costs and about $300 on annual maintenance costs.
For anyone wanting to learn more about electric vehicles, SHASA is hosting an EV Expo at Batehaven.
“It’ll be a great expo where you can even test drive an electric vehicle on the day,” Cr Hatcher said.
The EV Expo will run from 10 am to 2 pm at Corrigans Beach Reserve, Batehaven, on Saturday 1 October.
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