Record EV Sales, But Australia’s Road to Net-Zero Still Steep, EVC Warns

Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) market has hit record highs, but industry leaders say stronger policy support is needed to meet national emissions targets.

The Electric Vehicle Council’s (EVC) State of EVs 2025 Report reveals a surge in EV sales, model availability, and charging infrastructure but warns that momentum must accelerate to keep Australia on track for its climate goals.

MORE▶️: Australian EV Interest Accelerates Despite Cost and Charging Concerns

Key Highlights from the Report

• Record sales: 72,758 BEVs and PHEVs sold in the first half of 2025 — up 24.4% from 2024.
• Rising market share: EVs now make up 12.1% of all new car sales, compared to 9.61% last year.
• Fleet growth: Over 410,000 EVs now registered nationwide.
• More choice: 153 EV models available (94 BEVs, 59 PHEVs), up from 123 in 2024.
• Charging expansion: 1,272 fast-charging locations and 4,192 public high-power plugs (≥24kW DC) — both up more than 20% year-on-year.

EVC Says “Progress Is Real, But Not Enough Yet”

EVC CEO Julie Delvecchio praised the growth in EV uptake but cautioned that the country is still far from the scale needed to meet climate goals.

Julie Delvecchio, CEO, Electric Vehicle Council

“More Australians are steering towards electric vehicles because they’re better for your budget, better for the climate, and better for Australia — whether or not you drive one,” Delvecchio said.
“We’ve reached record highs in sales and charging sites, but we now need to shift from steady to rapid growth. Transport will soon be our largest-emitting sector, and EV adoption must accelerate to stay on target.”

Delvecchio highlighted the role of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and the Electric Car Discount in improving affordability and choice — alongside new vehicle-to-grid trials that are helping owners maximise energy savings at home.

MORE▶️: 5 Cheapest Electric Cars in Australia (2025)

What’s Still Missing

Despite record momentum, the report warns that Australia needs at least 1 million EVs on the road by 2028 to stay aligned with emissions targets.
That means selling:

• 145,000 EVs in 2025
• 240,000 in 2026, and
• 320,000 in 2027

The EVC is urging governments to:

• Set a ban date for new petrol and diesel registrations.
• Maintain and expand EV purchase incentives.
• Offer GST exemptions and energy bill credits for EV buyers.
• Ensure fair, future-proof road pricing that doesn’t penalise electric car owners.

MORE▶️: A Guide to Public EV Charging Providers in Australia

Zecar’s Take

Australia’s EV market is undeniably maturing: sales are up, models are diversifying, and charging infrastructure is growing. But the path to mainstream adoption remains challenging. Without consistent incentives and clear long-term targets, momentum could stall just as public interest peaks.

The message from the EVC is clear: Australia’s EV story is gaining speed, but it’s time to hit the accelerator.