Electric vehicles or EVs are rapidly becoming a popular choice for many Australians, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional (and environmetally more polluting) petrol and diesel cars. This guide covers essential aspects of buying an Electric Vehicle in Australia, including considerations for first-time buyers, battery information, charging options, pricing, and the most affordable EV models available in Australia.
Buying Your First EV: Things to Consider
Consider Your Needs
When purchasing your first Electric Vehicles in Australia, it’s essential to evaluate your driving habits and requirements:
- Location: Do you live in the city or country? Consider the availability of charging stations.
- Terrain: Do you live in a hilly neighbourhood?
- Family Size: How many seats and how much space do you need?
- Usage: What will you primarily use the car for? Is it Commuting, errands, or long-distance travel?
- Special Requirements: Do you need towing capacity or a bike rack?
Battery and Range
Understanding EV batteries and range is crucial:
- Battery Size: Larger batteries offer more range but increase the vehicle’s size and weight, affecting energy efficiency and cost.
- Range Anxiety: Assess your actual range needs by logging your trips and distance travelled over a week or month.
- Long-Distance Travel: Plan charging stops and check websites like PlugShare for charging station locations.
Charging
Charging your Electric Vehicles in Australia involves understanding plug types and installation:
- Plug Types: Ensure compatibility with public charging stations and consider if you need an adapter.
- Home Charging: Installing a home charging station involves additional costs and space requirements. Government incentives may be available for home chargers.
Pricing and Affordability
New vs. Used EVs
- New EVs: New models like those from BYD, GWM, and MG offer competitive pricing, with some models available for under $36,000.
- Used EVs: The secondhand market is growing, providing more affordable options as early adopters upgrade and government fleet vehicles become available.
Servicing Costs
Electric Vehicles in Australia generally have lower servicing costs compared to traditional vehicles. Different carmakers offer various schemes, and knowing the servicing costs is beneficial.
Government Incentives
Governments can contribute or offer incentives such as tax credits and rebates for purchasing EVs and installing home chargers. Check local incentives to save money on your EV purchase.
Test Driving
You should always test drive an EV before purchasing it. This practice ensures that it meets your needs and preferences. During the test drive, a representative can answer any questions.
Best Electric Vehicles in Australia (Catered for Your Different Priorities)
Electric Vehicle Sales in Australia
In early 2024, over 25,000 electric vehicles (EVs) were sold in Australia, marking an 8% share of total vehicle sales and a 46% increase from the same period in 2023. In June alone, 9,583 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and 1,949 plug-in hybrids were sold, totalling 11,532 electric vehicles. Tesla continues to lead, with BYD, GWM, and MG also contributing to this growth. Federal policies, such as the Electric Car Discount Policy offering tax exemptions for novated leases, have further boosted EV adoption.
Affordable Electric Cars
BYD, GWM, and MG are the most affordable EVs for budget-conscious buyers. The GWM Ora is the cheapest, priced at $35,990 driveaway. MG’s range includes the MG4 and MG ZS EV, starting at $39,990, while the BYD Dolphin Dynamic costs $41,404.90. These models provide a variety of features, styles, and ranges, offering significant value as competition increases.
Warranty and Servicing
GWM offers the best warranty with eight years of unlimited kilometres on the battery. MG follows with a 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty for both vehicle and battery. BYD provides eight years or 160,000 km for the battery. For servicing, MG, GWM, and BYD offer capped-price options. GWM Ora’s servicing starts at $99 per visit, while BYD Dolphin’s costs range from $189 to $447, depending on mileage.
Recommended Models
The MG4 Essence stands out for its blend of affordability, features, and performance. For those seeking a luxury option, the BMW iX is praised for its comfort and technology. The Tesla Model 3 Long Range offers excellent range and performance, making it a top choice for those willing to invest more.
Conclusion
EVs can offer environmental benefits as well as potential cost savings, which is why switching to one can be a rewarding decision. By knowing what you need, weighing your options, and considering financial factors, you can choose a model that suits your budget, requirements and lifestyle.
