theguardian.com
Australian EV Sales Dip, Hybrids Rise
Sales of battery electric vehicles fell sharply in Australia's third quarter of 2024, while hybrid vehicle sales rose, influenced by tax incentives and government policies.
English
United Kingdom
Climate ChangeEnergy SecurityElectric VehiclesGovernment PolicyHybrid CarsTax IncentivesAutomotive Sales
Australian Automobile Association (Aaa)Electric Vehicle CouncilMgPolestar AustraliaKiaLexus
Scott MaynardAman Gaur
- What was the significant factor that contributed to the increase in plug-in hybrid sales?
- Plug-in hybrid sales surged by 56%, reaching a market share of 2.5%. The exemption from fringe benefits tax until April 2025 for plug-in hybrids is a significant factor contributing to this rise.
- How did hybrid vehicle sales perform compared to battery electric vehicles during the same period?
- Hybrid vehicle sales increased by 3.3% to 48,282 units during the same period, outselling battery electric vehicles for five consecutive quarters. This growth is partly driven by tax concessions available to hybrid vehicles.
- What government policies or incentives influenced the sales figures of different vehicle types in Australia?
- While government rebates for battery electric vehicles have ended in most states, Western Australia is an exception, exhibiting the lowest decline in electric vehicle market share. The high-end electric car market is hindered by the 33% tax on luxury cars.
- What was the overall trend in battery-powered electric vehicle sales during the third quarter of 2024 in Australia?
- Battery-powered electric vehicle sales in Australia declined by 25% in the third quarter of 2024, dropping to 18,990 units. This decrease is attributed to consumers shifting towards hybrid models due to tax benefits.
- What vehicle type remained the most popular in the market, and what were the major powertrain types involved in this segment?
- Medium SUVs remained the most popular vehicle type, with 73,111 units sold in the third quarter. Petrol-powered cars still dominated this segment, although hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are gaining traction.