The return of the Melbourne Motorshow in 2025 has sent a clear signal to local government fleet managers: the pace of change in the vehicle market is accelerating, and the transition to electrified transport is no longer something to prepare for in the distant future — it’s already here.
The number and diversity of electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) unveiled at the show was unprecedented, and it reinforces the need to update long-term planning documents more frequently.
For councils managing large and diverse fleets, particularly across operational and passenger vehicle categories, the implications are significant. Traditional 10-year fleet replacement plans, Fleet Asset Management Plans and EV Transition Strategies should now be reviewed at least every six months to remain aligned with rapidly evolving vehicle availability, technology, policy and community expectations.
A Surge in Electrified Vehicle Options
The 2025 Melbourne Motorshow demonstrated that electric and hybrid vehicles are no longer niche offerings. Kia, Peugeot, Deepal, and others showcased electric and hybrid SUVs, sedans and utilities with specifications and price points that are increasingly suited to local government operations.
Peugeot unveiled its new 48V hybrid range, including the 308, 408 and 2008 — all offering significant fuel and emissions savings with no need for plug-in charging infrastructure. These vehicles can operate in electric mode for over 60% of urban driving conditions, making them suitable for roles such as community outreach, parking enforcement, and city-based site visits.
Meanwhile, Deepal’s E07 multitruck and upcoming S05 SUV are set to offer local governments new electric options for both passenger and light commercial roles. The E07’s flexible body configuration and 642km (NEDC) battery range make it a compelling option for departments that need both capability and zero-emissions credentials.
Utes Go Electric (or Close To It)
Perhaps most relevant for councils is the shifting landscape of the light commercial segment. Several manufacturers used the show to unveil new utility vehicles with hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains — a segment that has historically been slow to electrify.
The standout was the JAC Hunter, a plug-in hybrid 4×4 ute that delivers a class-leading 385kW of power and 1000Nm of torque, along with over 100km of electric-only range. For councils operating in rural or semi-rural areas where payload and towing are essential, but there’s pressure to decarbonise, this type of dual-technology drivetrain offers the best of both worlds.
FOTON also introduced its Tunland V series with a mild hybrid diesel powertrain, highlighting a shift toward fuel-saving technologies even within the heavy-duty segment. Kia’s upcoming Tasman ute — though not electric yet — includes features designed for fleet use, such as under-seat storage and rear seat recline, indicating a future-ready platform that could support electrification in future model updates.
The Case for Six-Monthly Reviews
With new models being announced and launched every quarter, local governments cannot rely on fixed, multi-year planning assumptions. Here’s why semi-annual reviews of fleet strategy documents are now essential:
- Vehicle Availability Is Changing Rapidly – Many EVs and hybrids on display at the motorshow are either launching now or arriving within the next 6 to 12 months. This timeline aligns closely with typical fleet procurement cycles, meaning waiting for the next annual review may miss key vehicle opportunities.
- Policy and Incentives Are Evolving – State and federal policies — including emissions targets, incentives for zero-emission vehicles, and changes to procurement rules — are frequently updated. Council EV Transition Plans need to reflect the latest available support and reporting requirements.
- Infrastructure Planning Needs to Keep Pace – As electric options increase, so does the need for appropriate charging infrastructure at depots, worksites and public locations. Charging plans must be aligned with the vehicles being ordered, and those vehicles are changing more often than ever before.
- Community Expectations Are Growing – Ratepayers increasingly expect councils to lead on sustainability. Councils that regularly review their Fleet Asset Management Plans can better communicate their progress and future intentions to constituents, demonstrating leadership in climate action.
Tools and Strategies for Agile Fleet Planning
To adapt to this new pace, councils should consider:
- Implementing a formal six-month review cycle for all strategic fleet documents.
- Subscribing to manufacturer alerts and engaging with vehicle suppliers to stay ahead of upcoming model launches.
- Using EV suitability tools to match vehicle usage profiles with real-world electric and hybrid offerings.
- Consulting cross-departmentally to understand which vehicle roles are best suited for early electrification.
The 2025 Melbourne Motorshow made it clear that the electrification of the vehicle market is gaining momentum across all key fleet categories — not just passenger vehicles, but also utes, SUVs and light commercials. For local government fleet managers, this means the vehicles your plans were based on just six months ago might already be outdated.
By shifting from static, decade-long planning cycles to dynamic, six-month review intervals, councils will be better equipped to respond to changes, seize emerging opportunities, and ensure that fleet investments continue to align with operational needs, policy goals and community values. The transition to cleaner transport is no longer a future consideration — it’s a current responsibility.
