Zero-emitters increase market share

Battery EVs (BEVs) accounted for nearly a quarter of all new-vehicle sales in Australia last month, according to the latest figures from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI).

The new-vehicle market recorded 102,924 sales in September, which was up 0.9 per cent from the same month last year.

BEVs accounted for 24.2 per cent of the total after jumping from 11.3 per cent in September 2025.

The FCAI adds that plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales last month rose 122.7 per cent year-on-year and hybrid registrations grew by 20.7 per cent. Meanwhile, petrol sales fell by 36.2 per cent and diesel units were down by 18.4 per cent. 

Year-to-date, BEVs represent 18.9 per cent of the market, compared with 8.1 per cent at the same time in 2025.

Dianne O’Hara, FCAI acting chief executive, says the figures show the shift towards electrified vehicles is being sustained.

“Australian motorists are embracing a broader range of powertrains, following greater model choice offered by manufacturers and growing competition,” she adds.

“Many consumers are making practical decisions and selecting from the range of available technologies that best meet their needs.”

The FCAI notes light commercial vehicle sales fell 13.2 per cent year-on-year but this was offset by 6.3 per cent growth for passenger vehicles and a 6.1 per cent increase for SUVs.

Ford’s Ranger was the best-selling model last month with 5,062 units and was followed by two Toyotas, the RAV4 on 4,624 and the Hilux with 4,455. The BYD Sealion 7, pictured, on 2,687 and Chery’s Tiggo 4 Pro with 2,059 completed the top five.

Toyota emerged as the leading marque after completing 17,682 sales. Next were BYD on 8,191, Ford with 7,592, Kia on 5,901 and Mazda with 5,702.