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EV sales in Australia hit 72,758 units, China leads market

Electric vehicle sales in Australia reached record levels in the first half of 2025, with 72,758 units sold, up 24.4% year-on-year, according to a report by the Electric Vehicle Council.

EVs accounted for 12.1% of all new car sales in the period, while Chinese brands dominated the top-selling models.

In June, EVs accounted for nearly 16% of new vehicle sales, setting a new monthly high.

Australia’s total EV fleet has grown to over 410,000, more than double the figure from two years ago.

The report cited expanded charging infrastructure, with 1,272 major fast-charging locations and over 4,192 high-power public charging plugs, as key growth drivers.

Despite the surge, EVs still represent only 2% of all cars on Australian roads.

China supplied 77.5% of all battery EVs sold in Australia this year, according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

🔗 Source: China Daily

🧠 Food for thought

Implications, context, and why it matters.

Chinese EV market share brings hidden supply-chain exposure

  • Chinese brands hold 77.5% of battery‑electric sales in Australia. Europe has tariffs up to 45%, and the US effectively bans Chinese cars under software and hardware laws 1.
  • Canberra joined World Trade Organization (WTO) reform talks on oversupply, including EVs 2, and trade minister Don Farrell prioritised oversupply 1. Tariffs or anti-dumping steps (penalties on imports sold below cost) could lift prices, dent demand, and strain the Climate Change Authority’s path to about 50% EV share by 2035 2.
  • Dealer groups flag pressure on franchised outlets, parts supply, and technician training. Security experts warn that connected EVs raise sabotage and data‑harvesting risks, which could trigger rules beyond trade policy 2.

Public charging buildout offers near-term infrastructure opportunities

  • EVs make up 2% of Australia’s fleet with 410,000 on the road. NSW set aside $199 million, with a $20 million destination program funding up to 80% per site capped at $200,000 3. WA’s Charge Up co‑funds up to 50% for 7 to 350 kW 4.
  • Federal DRIVEN Program offers $40 million in rebates up to $3,000 per plug with no public access requirement 5. High‑dwell‑time sites, where drivers park for longer stays, include retail centers, hospitality venues, and fleet depots. NSW Round 3 closed on 28 March 2025 after 550 sites and 1,300 ports 3. WA Round 3 closed on 30 June 2025 4. Grants can create new revenue, while the Climate Change Authority (an independent government advisory body on emissions and climate policy) sees about 9 million EVs sold over the next decade 2.

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