Australia has witnessed a significant leap into the era of electric transport in 2023, marked by rapid growth in both EV sales and charging infrastructure, as revealed in the Australian Electric Vehicle Industry Recap 2023 released today.
According to the Recap, compiled by the Electric Vehicle Council, EV sales, encompassing both battery EVs and plug-in hybrids, surged by an impressive 120 per cent.
The total Australian EV fleet surpassed an astounding milestone of 180,000 electric vehicles, and charging infrastructure locations experienced a remarkable 75 per cent increase compared to the previous year, with 348 new locations added across the country.
Additionally, the Recap provides insights into the top 20 EV models sold, tracks Australia’s progress towards the EVC’s recommended target of 1 million EVs by the end of 2027, and announces the launch of a national EV ownership survey in collaboration with the University of Sydney.
The report also includes an analysis debunking media claims of a slowdown in EV sales in the US, emphasising that electric car sales continue to thrive despite misperceptions.
Behyad Jafari, chief executive of the Electric Vehicle Council, dismissed notions of a slowdown in the US EV market, highlighting the remarkable 46 per cent annual growth rate in EV sales.
Jafari underscored the importance of extending the benefits of EVs to a broader cohort of Australians through ongoing policy reform.
“After a long period of anticipation last decade, it’s now genuinely exciting to see the electric vehicle revolution now rolling out all over Australia,” Jafari said.
He noted the widespread satisfaction among EV drivers, citing benefits such as freedom from petrol price fluctuations, reduced maintenance requirements, and a more enjoyable driving experience.
Additionally, he highlighted the environmental advantages, including reduced air and noise pollution in cities and towns.
“To sustain this positive trajectory we need sensible reform. The federal government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standards are a crucial step that finally brings Australia into line with the rest of the developed world. This move will see Australian drivers finally being given the same kind of choice offered to Americans and Europeans,” Jafari remarked.
“EVs are no longer a novelty, they are a core part of everyday Australian lives,” concluded Jafari.
“Hopefully the abundant benefits of switching to an EV will be embraced by millions more Australians as the decade progresses.”
