ACE EV’s Yewt and Minivan prototypes are touring Eastern Australia, aiming to spark a revival of local vehicle manufacturing. The Electric Viking reviews CleanTechnica’s coverage of the roadshow and the vision behind these uniquely Australian electric vehicles.
ACE EV’s Roadshow and Vision
ACE EV, led by CEO Greg McGarvey, has launched a 52-day roadshow from Brisbane, showcasing its new minivan and tray truck yewt across Eastern Australia. The event aims to engage local communities, businesses, and fleet operators, with over 70 test drive bookings already secured.
Greg McGarvey, a retired marine biologist who founded ACE EV Group in 2017 at age 66, is now 73 and remains committed to building an Australian electric vehicle industry. The company’s prototypes are designed for last-mile deliveries in dense urban environments, with features tailored for small businesses and accessibility needs.
Features and Driving Experience
The ACE EV minivan offers a 400 kg load capacity and is powered by CATL LFP batteries, delivering a range of 230 km (~143 miles) per charge. Fast charging is possible in just 30 minutes, and the 30-kW motor provides smooth acceleration for city driving. With compact dimensions of 339 cm (~133 inches) long, 195 cm (~77 inches) wide, and 147.5 cm (~58 inches) high, the minivan is well-suited for tight urban spaces.
Safety credentials include ECE and Japan PHP certifications, as well as full Australian Design Rule (ADR) crash testing and homologation. The van’s interior is practical, featuring double overhead gloveboxes, numerous storage nooks, USB ports, bright LED lighting, and a reversing camera. The minivan is also accessible, with space for a wheelchair in the back.
Running Costs and Production Plans
ACE EV expects the minivan to deliver 60–70% lower running costs compared to diesel vehicles, with estimated weekly savings of A$55 (~$39) to A$75 (~$53) per vehicle. The company plans to begin with imported kit assembly and transition to full Australian manufacturing once sales volumes reach 9,000 units.
Since 2019, ACE EV has secured over A$7.6M (~$5.4M) in vehicle reservations and received a A$5M (~$3.6M) federal government grant for an energy management trial. The company’s four directors have also contributed A$6.5M (~$4.6M) in time, effort, and capital.
Competitor Comparison
The ACE EV minivan enters a growing segment of affordable electric vehicles in Australia. Direct competitors include the Leapmotor B10, priced from A$39,980 (~$28,455) drive-away, the Honda Super-One at A$36,900 (~$26,263), and the MG4 EV Essence 64 at A$39,990 (~$28,462). While these models offer established brand presence and dealership networks, ACE EV distinguishes itself as a locally developed and manufactured option with a focus on urban delivery and accessibility.
Why this matters
The ACE EV Yewt and Minivan represent a rare attempt to revive Australian vehicle manufacturing with a focus on clean energy and local innovation. With safety certifications and a practical design for urban logistics, these vehicles could provide significant cost savings for small businesses and fleet operators.
The roadshow is also a test of public and commercial interest in Australian-made electric vehicles, potentially paving the way for local assembly and job creation if sales targets are met.
What this means for buyers
Buyers looking for a compact, efficient, and locally developed electric van for urban deliveries now have a new option to consider. The ACE EV minivan offers competitive running costs and practical features, with the added appeal of supporting Australian manufacturing. Prospective customers should watch for updates on regional availability and production timelines as the roadshow progresses.
Related coverage from The Electric Viking
For more on Australia’s evolving EV market, see our recent articles: MG4 EV Essence 64: Australia’s Cheapest Long-Range Electric Hatch?, Leapmotor B10 Launches in Australia: Price and Features, and Honda Super-One: New Electric Micro-Hatch Arrives Down Under.
Key Specs
- Load Capacity: 400 kg (~882 lbs)
- Battery Type: CATL LFP
- Range: 230 km (~143 miles)
- Fast Charge Time: 30 minutes
- Motor Power: 30 kW
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 339 x 195 x 147.5 cm (~133 x 77 x 58 inches)
- Curb Weight: 1590 kg (~3,505 lbs)
- Safety Certifications: ECE, Japan PHP, ADR crash tested
Source
Images sourced from: cleantechnica.com
