‘A new trajectory’: EVs now almost quarter of Australia’s new car sales as fuel crisis bites
Electric vehicle sales in Australia have surged in the first half of 2026, surpassing the total sales for the entire previous year. Industry experts attribute this shift to consumer concerns over rising petrol prices caused by Middle Eastern instability.
Why it matters
The rapid adoption of EVs indicates a significant shift in consumer behavior driven by energy security concerns and environmental awareness.
There were 103,855 battery electric vehicles (EVs) sold in Australia between January and June this year, compared with 103,269 in 2025, according to data from VFacts and the Electric Vehicle Council. Photograph: Dan Himbrechts/AAP There were 103,855 battery electric vehicles (EVs) sold in Australia between January and June this year, compared with 103,269 in 2025, according to data from VFacts and the Electric Vehicle Council. Photograph: Dan Himbrechts/AAP Australian climate and environmental reporting Electric vehicles ‘A new trajectory’: EVs now almost quarter of Australia’s new car sales as fuel crisis bites More electric vehicles sold in first half of 2026 than whole of last year, new data shows
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