Volvo Group Australia President and CEO, Martin Merrick took part in the discussion, covering topics from infrastructure, government policy, consumer behaviour and business incentives.
Also taking part the panel discussion were Johan Forssell, Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Sweden, Mr. Matthew Ryan, Assistant Secretary Transport Branch, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water and Dr Marnie Shaw, Research Leader, ANU Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program.
The wide-ranging discussion, facilitated by ANU Professor Mark Howden, Director of the Institute for Climate, Energy & Disaster Solutions, tackled not only the issues raised by decarbonizing transport networks but also the issues driving transformation in both Australia and Sweden.
We talk sustainability and transformation within our business constantly
“It’s like a mantra for us, however, it’s inspiring to hear the enthusiasm we have for those ideals echoed by others in a forum such as this, be it from business, academia or government.”
“We are determined to play our part in meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement and contribute towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.” Merrick continues.
“Promoting the uptake of zero emissions vehicles in Australia is a key part of meeting those goals.”
“Forums such as this play a key part in spreading awareness of what can be done to accelerate the transformation of transport and mobility.” “It really is a privilege to be able to take part in a discussion that shows just how aligned Australian and Swedish businesses and are on sustainability and the future of our planet.”
During the event, Merrick confirmed that Volvo Group Australia is on track to commence building electric trucks at its Wacol, Qld plant by 2027.
Volvo Group Australia recently inked a landmark agreement with the ACT Emergency Services Agency for the supply of Electric trucks and more recently a record order for electric trucks from Australian express freight company, Team Global Express. The first deliveries of Volvo electric trucks are expected to begin in the coming weeks signaling that a change is coming to how we transport goods and deliver critical services for our people and communities.
The ANU event was opened by Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden as part of a royal tour of Australia and New Zealand. The Crown Princess took the opportunity to address climate change and the drive towards a more sustainable future.
“Loss of biodiversity is one of the greatest challenges facing humanity, affecting food, fresh water and clean air. “Climate change affects the planet itself and us who live there here and now. This is the time and place to mitigate the situation.”
“I’m very happy to see representatives from both Government and industry here today, this is the nexus between science, policy and industry.”
“Australia is a country with great potential for green transformation.”
Matt Wood
Public Relations and Media Manager (Volvo Group Australia)
Mobile: +61 (0)436681117
Email: matthew.wood@volvo.com
Volvo Group Australia is responsible for Mack, Volvo truck brands within Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and the South Pacific Islands. Mack and Volvo Trucks proudly carry the Australian Made certification for trucks built at the local Wacol factory in Brisbane. Volvo Group Australia is the sole authorised distributor for UD Trucks in Australia.
We provide complete transport solutions for professional and demanding customers, including complete solutions for financing and service. Over 1400 people are employed by Volvo Group Australia across the country, with over 80 suppliers also benefitting from local production. Volvo Group boasts the largest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand with service points across the country giving access to metropolitan and regional customers.
We provide complete transport solutions for professional and demanding customers, including complete solutions for financing and service. Over 1400 people are employed by Volvo Group Australia across the country, with over 80 suppliers also benefitting from local production. Volvo Group boasts the largest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand with service points across the country giving access to metropolitan and regional customers.
Volvo Group Australia is part of Swedish-based Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines.