Page last updated: 5 February 2025
EV purchases in Australia more than doubled in 2023 compared to 2022, bringing the total number of electric vehicles on Australian roads to over 180,000, continuing the yearly doubling trend that has been ongoing since 2020.
How many electric vehicle sold in Australia in 2024?
- As of September of 2024, Australia recorded 85,329 electric vehicle sales, comprising 69,895 BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles), 15,424 PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles), and 10 HFCEVs (Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles).
| 2024 Quarter | BEV | PHEV | HFCEV | Total |
| Q1 | 25,552 | 3,426 | 2 | 28,980 |
| Q2 | 25,353 | 4,675 | 5 | 30,033 |
| Q3 | 18,990 | 7,323 | 3 | 26,316 |
How many electric vehicles are sold in Australia each year?
Electric car sales in Australia reached 98,409 in 2023, a 60% increase from the previous year.
- EV sales in Australia have shown a steady upward trend, particularly after 2018, with a significant 200% increase in 2021.
- The surge from 38,900 EVs in 2022 to 98,409 in 2023 (a 157% increase) highlights a rapid acceleration, signalling a promising future for EV adoption.
- Learn more about Global EV Sales here.
Electric Car Sales vs Traditional Car Sales in Australia (2012-2023)
In 2023, EVs accounted for 12.04% of total car sales in Australia.
- Steady growth is evident in EV sales as the number of sales increased from just 250 units sold in 2012 to 98,409 in 2023, reflecting consistent growth over time.
- In 2019, the EV market share jumped from 1.2% to over 12% by 2023, representing a rapid shift in consumer demand for electric vehicles.
Types of Electric Vehicles Sold in Australia (2023)
In 2023, zero-emission vehicles in Australia showed a strong performance across various categories:
- Hybrid Vehicles (HEVs): Led the market with 101,439 units sold, demonstrating continued popularity due to fuel efficiency and transitional appeal.
- Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs): Followed closely with 87,190 units, reflecting significant consumer interest in fully electric models.
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): Reached 11,219 sales, appealing to those seeking a blend of electric and traditional power.
- Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (HFCEVs): Still in its infancy, with just 6 units sold, indicating minimal market penetration for hydrogen technology.
Which states led in electric car sales in 2023?
Australian Capital Territory, with over 21% share of electric car sales in 2023.
- New South Wales followed, with sales of approximately 10% of electric vehicles.
- Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria also had notable sales with 9% and 8%, respectively.
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What are the leading models of electric vehicles?
The Tesla Model Y topped the list with approximately 29,000 units sold in Australia in 2023.
- The Tesla Model 3 is second on the list with an estimated 18,000 sales followed by BYD Atto 3 with 11,000 units in 2023.
Leading Electric Vehicle Model in 2023
- The leading electric vehicle models sold in Australia in 2023 were Tesla Model Y and Model 3, driven by their advanced technology, range efficiency, and strong brand presence, making them popular choices among Australian consumers.
- Explore the Latest Trends in EV Sales by Brand and Model.
What are the leading brands of electric vehicles?
Tesla Inc led the electric vehicle market in Australia in 2023, with 47,000 units sold.
- BYD followed in second place with 11,000 EV sales, while MG ranked third with 9,000 units sold.
How strong is the demand for electric vehicles today?
- Electric car sales in Australia reached 98,409 in 2023, increasing by 7% in market share from the previous year.
- EV sales in 2023 made up 12% of total car sales, up from 5% in 2022, indicating strong market demand.
How many EV charging stations are across Australia?
In 2023, Australia had over 810 EV charging stations, marking significant progress in the country’s electric vehicle infrastructure.
- New South Wales led with 229 charging stations to support the growing demand for electric vehicles.
- Victoria followed closely with 205 stations, fostering EV adoption and sustainability initiatives.
- Queensland, with 151 stations, continued to promote electric vehicle use by expanding its charging network.
Why is Australia investing in zero-emission vehicles (ZEV)?
- EVs help reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating tailpipe emissions and relying on renewable energy for charging, supporting climate goals.
- It also reduces carbon emissions, combats climate change, and enhances public health by decreasing air pollution.
- The Australian Government initiative aims to introduce new regulations to target vehicle emissions as part of efforts to increase electric vehicle uptake.
Projections for EV Sales in Australia
Australia aims to achieve a 100% zero-emission vehicle fleet by 2050.
- The Electric Vehicle Council projects that by 2027, Australia will have 1 million EVs on the road, representing about 5% of the vehicle fleet and around 30% of new vehicle sales.
- By 2030, the council would like to achieve 2.5 million EVs, making up 50-60% of new vehicle purchases.
Government Policies for ZEV Adoption
The government initiative aims to introduce new regulations to target vehicle emissions as part of efforts to increase electric vehicle (EV) uptake.
- Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) Exemption: EVs purchased by companies or through salary sacrifice are exempt from FBT to increase fleet adoption.
- EV Discount Policy: Aims to boost corporate EV usage, promoting a stronger second-hand EV market.
- EV Infrastructure Development: Government funding to expand public charging stations, particularly in rural areas.
- Federal Funding: Significant government investment in expanding EV charging networks, with grants for installing new charging stations.
- Provincial Incentives: Various provinces offer rebates and subsidies to support both EV purchases and charging infrastructure development.
- Partnerships with the Private Sector: Collaboration with companies like Tesla, FLO, and Electrify Canada to improve charging accessibility across the country.
- Federal Funding: Significant government investment in expanding EV charging networks, with grants for installing new charging stations.
What are the economic benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles in Australia?
- Cost Savings: A full transition to electric vehicles could save Australia $492 billion by 2050, mainly by reducing fuel and maintenance costs.
- Employment Growth: The shift to EVs is expected to create new jobs in industries such as renewable energy, manufacturing, and EV infrastructure.
- Energy Security: Transitioning to EVs reduces Australia’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, enhancing energy independence and price stability.
- Healthcare Savings: Improved air quality from EV adoption could lead to lower public health costs, particularly from pollution-related illnesses.
EV Sales Statistics Resources
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