Australia’s EV market surges in 2026: Sales, charging and choice

BYD ATTO 1 front exterior view on an empty road available for a novated lease in Australia with Maxxia

The Electric Vehicle (EV) Council’s latest State of EVs report highlights the evolution of Australia’s electric car market – and the impact of novated leasing on EV growth.

Australia’s EV market has come a long way in just a few years. Sales are soaring, new models are arriving at all price points (including Australia’s cheapest new car), and the charging network is expanding.

At Maxxia, we’ve been helping Australians save on EVs since the introduction of the EV Discount in 2022. Through our nationwide dealer network, customers access competitive pricing on the latest and most popular brands, while drivers of eligible EVs can also benefit from the current Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption.

And as our EV market continues to evolve, Maxxia is committed to evolving with it.

Keeping up with Australia’s changing EV landscape

Key to helping our customers make informed choices is keeping pace with what’s happening across the industry.

That’s why we stay connected with organisations such as the EV Council (EVC), whose annual State of EVs report goes deep on developments in the Australian EV market.

More EVs, more choice and more places to charge

According to the EVC’s 2026 report, almost 158,000 electric vehicles were sold in Australia in the first six months of 2026, including battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) cars. That’s a 117% increase on the same period in 2025.

BEVs comprised 25.8% of all new car sales during the period – or around one in every four new cars sold. Australia’s EV fleet had also grown to more than 610,000 cars by June 2026.

Choice is growing too, with 196 EV models being available in 2026, up from 153 in 2025.

Finally, public charging infrastructure has surged to 4,268 locations and 11,602 connectors – up 235% and 175% in 12 months.

Government policy is EVolving, too

The market isn’t the only thing evolving.

In May 2026, the government has announced proposed changes to the Electric Car Discount. Under the proposal, the current full FBT exemption will continue for eligible EVs costing $75,000 or less until 1 April 2029. Eligible EVs above $75,000 but below the luxury car tax (LCT) threshold, currently $91,661 would instead receive a 25% FBT discount from 1 April 2027.

From 1 April 2029, all eligible EVs below the LCT threshold will receive a 25% discount on FBT. The government has stated that existing novated leases won’t be impacted by the changes. Importantly, these proposed changes are not yet law.

As the EV market and the rules around it continue to change, Maxxia will continue working with our industry and dealer partners to help customers understand their options and find an EV and novated lease that works for them.