Electric vehicle (EV) uptake in Australia accelerated in March, with new data showing a sharp rise in market share as consumers respond to ongoing fuel uncertainty.
According to the latest VFACTS figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), 15,839 battery electric vehicles were sold during the month, representing 14.6 per cent of total vehicle sales. This marks a significant increase from the 7.5 per cent share recorded in March 2025.
Overall sales decline despite EV growth
The surge in EV demand comes despite an overall decline in the broader new vehicle market. Total sales reached 105,058 units in March, down 3.3 per cent compared to the same period last year, suggesting a shift in buyer behaviour rather than overall growth.
Tony Weber, chief executive of the FCAI, said the increase may be driven by short-term influences.
“It is too early to determine whether this represents a structural shift in the market. More consumers are considering EVs due to the disruption to fuel supply caused by conflict in the Middle East, along with the review into the fringe benefits tax concession for EVs,” Weber said.
Infrastructure key to long-term adoption
Weber said sustained growth in EV uptake will depend on improvements in charging infrastructure.
“A long-term shift to EVs will require Australian governments to sharpen their focus on public charging infrastructure, particularly in regional areas and locations where home charging is not practical,” he said.
“Ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with consumer demand will be critical to enabling sustainable growth in EV adoption beyond short-term influences.”
Market leaders
Despite the rise in EV sales, conventional vehicles continue to dominate overall volumes.
Toyota led the market in March with 16,574 sales, followed by Kia and BYD.
Top-selling models included the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux, highlighting continued strength in Ute and SUV segments even as EV adoption increases.
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