New EV Sold Every 100 Seconds as Australia Marks Milestone

Australia's transition toward electrified transport has hit another major benchmark, with a new electric car now being delivered across the country every 100 seconds, according to a comprehensive review marking ten years of industry progress from the Electric Vehicle Council.

The benchmark report highlights a sharp acceleration in Australian demand over the past twelve months. Combined sales of pure battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids have doubled when comparing the first half of 2025 with the second half of 2026. Motorists continue to heavily favour pure electric models, with battery electric vehicles outselling plug-in hybrids by a ratio of two to one.

The surge in uptake reflects a combination of falling battery costs, aggressive showroom price competition across popular mid-size SUV and compact segments, and growing consumer confidence in operating costs compared to petrol and diesel motoring. Fast-expanding public infrastructure has also helped support the boom, with the national network now encompassing more than 4,200 alternating-current and direct-current public charging locations across metropolitan and regional routes.

However, the council noted potential risks ahead for sustaining this momentum. Key concerns include keeping pace with infrastructure demand as fleets multiply, as well as uncertainty around proposed state-level road user charges and incoming adjustments to federal tax concessions.

What this means for your novated lease

If you have been thinking about salary packaging an electric vehicle, the market conditions in late 2026 present a compelling financial case alongside important deadlines.

• Maximise current fringe benefits tax rules: Under existing federal legislation, eligible battery electric vehicles priced below the luxury car tax threshold of $91,661 remain completely exempt from fringe benefits tax. Securing and taking delivery of your novated lease before policy adjustments begin from 1 April 2027 locks in full exemption benefits for the entire term of your lease agreement.
• Lower ongoing running costs: Rapid growth in nationwide charging sites and stable home electricity tariffs mean running costs remain dramatically lower than conventional fuel expenses. Salary packaging bundled running costs—including home electricity charging, comprehensive insurance, servicing, and tyres—amplifies these operational savings.
• Expanding choice under budget thresholds: With more mainstream manufacturers competing for private and fleet buyers, eligible zero-emission options under the luxury car tax ceiling are more varied than ever. Drivers can find high-specification SUVs, wagons, and family vehicles without forfeiting valuable pre-tax salary deductions.

Before entering an agreement, check delivery lead times with your leasing provider to ensure your vehicle arrives in time to benefit from current grandfathering protections.