Otis Singleton
Electric vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive and cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. They also produce zero emissions while driving. The variety and volume of EV models are expected to grow, so if you're thinking of buying an electric car, now is a great time. You can choose from a wide range of options, including small cars, SUVs, sedans, and performance vehicles. When deciding which electric vehicle to buy, consider factors such as your budget, the range you need, the size of the car, and the features that are important to you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Affordability | The average price for a new vehicle in Australia is around $50,000, with some electric vehicles selling in the low $30,000s. |
| Environmental Impact | Electric vehicles produce zero emissions while driving and have a lower carbon footprint than petrol cars. |
| Range | The range of an electric vehicle depends on the size and efficiency of the battery. Larger batteries provide more range but also increase the size and weight of the car. |
| Charging | Charging times vary across electric vehicles, with some capable of quick charging (e.g., adding 400km of range in 5 minutes). |
| Models | Various models are available, including small cars, SUVs, sedans, and performance cars. Specific models include the MG4, Renault 5 Turbo 3E, and Kia's EV9. |
| Market | The electric vehicle market in Australia is growing, with an increasing variety and volume of models expected. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric vehicle reviews
Electric vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive and cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. They also produce zero emissions while driving. The range of an EV, or how far it can travel on a full battery, depends on the size and efficiency of the battery.
There are a variety of EVs available on the market, with prices ranging from $30,000 to over $200,000. Some of the more affordable options include the MG4, a budget-friendly small electric hatchback in Australia, and the Kia EV9, which is now available in Australia. The cheapest EVs on the market are produced by BYD, GWM, and MG.
If you're looking for a more luxurious option, you might consider the Lexus RZ EV, which offers increased power and range, or the Tesla Model Y, which is expected to arrive in Australia in June.
When choosing an EV, it's important to consider your specific needs. For example, do you need a large battery with a long range, or would a smaller battery suffice? It's also important to think about how you will be using the vehicle. If you live in the city, for example, you might want to consider a smaller, more compact car.
- The Skoda Elroq: This car offers good performance, competitive pricing, and smart design.
- The EX30: This car has a low audited CO2 footprint of only 18 tonnes, which is not much more than many petrol rivals.
- The EV3: This car is keenly priced, easy to drive, and has a strong range.
- The Renault Megane: This car is slick to drive, conventionally desirable, and has a well-finished cabin.
- The Porsche Macan: This car is well-rounded, comfortable, fast, and practical.
- The EV6: This car is spacious, quiet, and a capable cruiser, and it is equipped with 800-volt architecture that makes charging quick and easy.
With new government policies supporting the rollout of EVs, the variety and volume of models are expected to grow, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from when making the switch to electric.
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Electric vehicle affordability
Electric vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive and cheaper than their hydrocarbon-locked counterparts. With new government policies supporting the rollout of EVs, Australians are about to be spoiled for choice as the variety and volume of models are expected to grow.
The affordability of an electric vehicle is relative. Some carmakers, such as BYD, have been producing cheap EVs that now sell in Australia in the low $30,000s. According to Dr Jake Whitehead, chief scientist with the Electric Vehicle Council of Australia, the average price for a new vehicle – EV or petrol – in Australia is around $50,000, which means that any EVs below that point are cheaper than your average new vehicle.
However, even these prices can still be too high, which is why most Australians buy their cars on the second-hand market. The good news is that Australia’s second-hand EV market is starting to develop, with early adopters now selling their vehicles as they look to trade up and government fleet vehicles expected to go on sale over the next 12 to 18 months.
When considering the affordability of an EV, it is important to remember that they are a good option for reducing running costs. EVs also produce zero emissions while driving. The range of an EV, or how far it can travel on a full battery, depends on the size and efficiency of the battery, and prices vary widely, with cheaper EVs emerging.
When considering the purchase of an EV, it is important to ask yourself how you will be using the vehicle. For example, do you live in the city or the country? This will help determine the range you require and whether "car bloat" is a concern.
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Electric vehicle range
When considering which electric vehicle to buy, range is a key factor. The distance an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge is a major concern for prospective buyers, but the good news is that electric vehicles have evolved rapidly. The development of lithium-ion batteries has allowed vehicles to go hundreds of miles on a single charge, which is more than enough for most people's daily commutes.
The range of an electric vehicle depends on its make and model, the current amount of charge, and the driving conditions. For example, you will have more range when driving in stop-and-go traffic than on the open highway, as braking regenerates the battery. On the highway, you can increase your range by slowing down; for instance, driving at 60 mph instead of 75 mph can significantly increase your range.
The longest-range electric cars can travel over 400 miles on a full charge. The 2025 Lucid Air Grand Touring sedan, for example, has a range of 512 miles. The Chevy full-size electric pickup, the GMC Hummer EV pickup, and the Mercedes EQS450+ can all manage around 400 miles. The BMW i7 mid-level model offers a range of 310 miles, while the Hyundai Ioniq 6 falls just short of 300 miles on a full charge.
There are also more affordable options with impressive ranges. The second-generation MG4, for example, is a budget-friendly small electric hatchback in Australia, and the Renault Megane is a stylish and efficient option. The Kia EV9 and the Geely EX5 electric SUV also offer competitive ranges at lower price points.
When considering an electric vehicle's range, it is important to think about your daily commute and how often you travel long distances. Most charging can be done at home or while at work, and high-speed charging stations are available across the country, usually near restaurants or shopping areas. These stations can charge your vehicle to 80% in about 30 minutes, making them convenient for road trips. Keep in mind that EV battery range can drop significantly in cold weather, so you may need to charge more frequently during winter.
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Electric vehicle charging
In New York City, for example, charging an EV can be challenging as many people park their cars on the street and lack access to a home charger. To address this, the city is working to expand access to public EV charging across the five boroughs. As part of the PlugNYC initiative, the city is developing a comprehensive network of publicly accessible Level 2 and DC fast chargers. This includes installing curbside Level 2 charging ports and creating a network of 1,000 curbside charge points by 2025, increasing to 10,000 by 2030.
When considering which electric vehicle to buy, it is important to research the charging options available in your specific location. The U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) provides up-to-date information on alternative fueling station locations, including public charging stations or electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Additionally, local government websites and initiatives, such as Electrifying New York, can provide valuable insights into the EV charging infrastructure and plans in your area.
It is also worth noting that some electric vehicles have faster charging capabilities than others. For example, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the EV6 share similar features, but the EV6 is equipped with 800-volt architecture, resulting in quicker charging times. Therefore, when deciding which electric vehicle to buy, considering the charging infrastructure, availability, and compatibility with your chosen vehicle can help ensure a seamless ownership experience.
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Electric vehicle second-hand market
The second-hand market for electric vehicles (EVs) is growing, with an influx of newer model-year vehicles becoming available. In 2023, roughly 1.5 million EVs were sold as new vehicles, and this model year now makes up a quarter of the used EV market. In 2025, around 123,000 leased EVs will return to the second-hand market, and this number is expected to more than double in 2026 to 329,000 EVs, or 14% of all off-lease vehicles.
Used EV prices are settling, with the average price market-wide around $38,000. However, this can vary depending on the vehicle's age, how it has been driven, and how it has been stored, as EV batteries degrade over time. It is important to understand the battery's current state before purchasing a used EV.
Some popular choices for second-hand EVs include the Nissan Leaf, a reliable, practical, and cost-effective option that has been a best-seller in the UK since its debut in 2010. The Jaguar I-Pace, a former World Car of the Year, is another desirable option with its blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The Vauxhall Corsa Electric is also a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and practical used EV, with its smooth and quiet performance and compact size making it well-suited for city driving.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric vehicles are a good option if you want to reduce running costs. EVs produce zero emissions and are cheaper than their hydrocarbon-locked counterparts. BYD, for example, produces cheap EVs that sell in Australia in the low $30,000s.
Affordability is relative. The average price for a new vehicle in Australia, whether EV or petrol, is around $50,000. So, if your budget is below that, you're looking at a cheaper-than-average vehicle. Australia's secondhand EV market is also developing, with prices that are certainly more affordable than new vehicles.
The general rule of thumb is that the larger the battery, the more kilowatt hours it will have, and the further it will go before it needs to be recharged. However, larger batteries also mean larger and heavier cars, which will require more energy to move. So, it's important to ask yourself: how much range do you actually need?
