The Australian Automobile Association’s EV Index shows there were more than 30,000 EV sales in the second quarter of this year.
This is the first time Australia has cracked that figure in a single quarter, with the Index showing that battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) sales represented 9.6 per cent of new light vehicles sold in Q2.
Samantha Johnson, Chief Executive of the Electric Vehicle Council, said these sales figures are without precedent, which is extremely encouraging given the broader economic pressures with high interest rates and the cost of living limiting people’s ability to purchase new cars.
“The continuing strength of electric vehicle sales means Australia remains on track to hit the 100,000 EV annual sales target in 2024.
“These figures demonstrate that Australians want more electric cars and governments need to listen to this demand by continuing to provide support for electric vehicles.
“We have seen several states prematurely withdraw incentives – it is critical that governments implement targeted programs that enable more Australian households and businesses to make the switch to electric vehicles.”
Johnson believes misinformation is hampering the electric vehicle transition.
“The facts are that EVs are cheaper to own and run than ICEs, they reduce air pollution and they’re essential to reducing our carbon emissions.
“We need to see the EV market grow to meet our climate targets – the National Vehicle Efficiency Standard will play a vital role but there is much more that needs to be done to reduce the nation’s transport emissions.”
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