5 Cheapest Electric Cars in Australia (2023): Three Models sub $40k

The BYD Dolphin features great in-car technology, a high quality interior and good passenger and storage space.

The BYD Dolphin range is priced from $38,890 before on-road costs, making it the cheapest electric car available in the market. Both Dolphin variants will be eligible for the various state government incentives and the FBT exemption which is available through a novated lease.

The Dolphin Dynamic offers 340km of claimed driving range on the stricter WLTP testing cycle. Meanwhile, the Dolphin Premium Extended Range battery is offered for $6000 more with 427km of range (WLTP). Both battery sizes can be topped up with up to 7kW AC and 60 kW/80kW DC speeds, with an included vehicle-to-load (V2L) adapter for powering other devices or appliances outside the car.

Built on the same dedicated EV platform as the popular BYD Atto 3, both models use BYD's ‘Blade Battery’ based on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) technology.

Both variants feature a 12.8-inch tablet-style rotatable infotainment system running its own ‘DiLink’ software, panoramic sunroof, and a complete suite of safety assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera.

The MG4 offers good driving dynamics, sleek styling and good interior space.

The MG 4 is a small electric hatch with prices starting from $38,990 for the base variant. It is available in three battery sizes and two trims providing up to 530km of claimed WLTP driving range.

The base model offers modest charging speeds capable of up to 6.6kW AC and 88kW DC. Charging speeds for the long range variant are bumped up to a speed 11KW AC and 140kW DC. All models are capable of vehicle-to-load (V2L) via a compatible adapter.

It features a 10.25-inch tablet-style touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, 50-50 claimed weight distribution and rides on SAIC Motor’s Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) dedicated EV platform.

All variants will be eligible for the various state government incentives and the FBT exemption which is available through a novated lease.

The MG4 electric car is covered by a seven-year, unlimited kilometre vehicle and battery warranty. The same period also applies to its roadside assistance and capped-price servicing coverage.

The GWM Ora offers distinctive retro styling both inside and out. While storage space is modest, passenger space is generous.

The Great Wall Motors (GWM) Ora (known as the Ora Funky Cat or Good Cat overseas) debuted in Australia in April, as one of Australia's cheapest new electric cars.

Following a recent price drop, it is now priced from $39,990 to $51,990 before on-road costs, the Ora EV provides up to 420km of claimed WLTP driving range featuring a quirky two-tone colour design, and a seven-year, unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty as standard.

All Ora models will be eligible for the various state government incentives and the FBT exemption which is available through a novated lease. You can request a quote by clicking the image below.

The electric car can be charged at up to 11kW AC, with a maximum rate of 64kW DC on the Standard Range or 67kW DC on the Extended Range. The company claims the Standard Range can recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in 41 minutes on a compatible public EV charger.

It is offered in two variants featuring a 10.25-inch infotainment display and a 10.25 inch driver instrument display and complete active safety assist suite.

The GWM Ora EV is covered by a seven-year, unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery warranty.

The MG ZS EV is a great value option for those seeking an affordable electric SUV.

The MG ZS EV received a major facelift last year, with fresher looks, updated tech and an all-new battery pack, but prices are slightly up.

The 2023 MG ZS EV starts from $43,990 before on-road costs nationwide (before state incentives). Both ZS EV variants will be eligible for the various state government incentives and the FBT exemption which is available through a novated lease. You can request a quote by clicking the image below.

The refreshed Chinese small electric SUV provides up to 320km of range (WLTP). It can charge at up to 6.6kW AC or 75kW DC rates on a compatible charger.

Standard equipment highlights on the base Excite includes a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, full LED headlights, and ‘MG Pilot’ active safety assistance systems including auto emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, 360-degree surround view camera, and more.

Buyers who want features like blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, faux leather seats, and more will need to step up to the flagship Essence model at $47,990 before on-road costs.

The BYD Atto 3 is one of the best value electric SUVs available. It features great in-car technology, a premium fit and finish and generous interior space.

Launching in 2022 with much fanfare, the BYD Atto 3 has quickly positioned itself as one of the best selling electric cars in the market.

The BYD Atto 3 is a small to medium SUV riding on a dedicated EV platform, starting from $48,011 before on-road costs and state incentives. Both Atto 3 variants will be eligible for the various state government incentives and the FBT exemption which is available through a novated lease. You can request a quote by clicking the image below.

The Atto 3 Standard Range offers 320km of claimed driving range on the stricter WLTP testing cycle. Meanwhile, an Extended Range battery is offered for $3000 more with 420km of range (WLTP). Both packs can be topped up with up to 7kW AC or 80kW DC speeds, with an included vehicle-to-load (V2L) adapter for powering other devices or appliances outside the car.

Both models use BYD's ‘Blade Battery’ based on lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) technology. It’s claimed to be more durable, safer, and longer-lasting than traditional packs with minimal degradation over one million kilometres of driving.

With only one high-spec model, the BYD EV features a 12.8-inch tablet-style rotatable infotainment system running its own ‘DiLink’ software, panoramic sunroof, and a complete suite of safety assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera.

The BYD Atto 3 is covered by a six-year/150,000km vehicle warranty and eight-year/160,000km battery warranty, promising it retains at least 70 per cent of its health.

Below is a comparison of the the key specs for each model on this list. Overall the BYD Dolphin and the MG 4 represent the best value in terms of specs and features. The Dolphin is equipped with more standard features however the MG 4 comes with a better drivetrain package. The GWM Ora appears to be a great option for those seeking a more unique retro design.