Australia’s July 2026 new-car market set a monthly record with 103,656 vehicles sold, and electric vehicles accounted for 21.7% of the total, maintaining momentum from June’s share.

Tesla’s Model Y was the top-selling model with 20,396 deliveries, followed by BYD Sealion 7 at 12,516 units, while Geely EX5 dropped to third with 6,756 deliveries.

Year-to-date sales show strong growth for electric propulsion, with Tesla and Polestar up 80.4% year over year to 29,711 vehicles.

Industry leaders warned that rising EV uptake will strain public charging infrastructure and called for coordinated action from government and private sectors to expand charging access, especially in regional areas and for homes without off-street charging.

EVC CEO Julie Delvecchio attributed demand to lower running costs, petrol-price uncertainty, and a broader model range.

Study authors note a broader energy-transition shift, with a six-point rise in support for EVs in the Clean Energy Solutions Index.

Regional policy impact is evident, with high EV uptake in areas like Tarneit, Werribee, Kellyville, and others, reflecting local incentives at work.

Public attitudes toward EVs are improving as fuel reliability concerns fade and driving value becomes clearer to consumers.

Market composition shows gains in NSW, Victoria, WA, and Tasmania, while Queensland trails; private buyers accounted for a large share of sales, with other segments varying by category.

EV Council notes Australians are choosing EVs for lower running costs, environmental benefits, and driving experience, with demand rising even after July’s softer numbers.

New entrants like Jaecoo entered strongly (fifth among EV brands); MG rose year over year but fell to seventh.

Other top brands included Zeekr, with VW, Hyundai, and BMW also in the top ten as Chinese brands expand presence in Australia.