Australia records strongest new vehicle sales month on record as EVs surge

Australia’s new vehicle market recorded its strongest month on record in June, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounting for almost a quarter of all sales.

According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), 131,134 new vehicles were sold through the VFACTS reporting system during June, up 7% on the same month last year. Total sales from all sources reached a record 140,058 units.

BEVs accounted for 23.3% of all June sales, up from 7.6% a year earlier.

FCAI chief executive Tony Weber said the Australian market had undergone a significant transformation during the first half of 2026.

“The Australian automotive market has shifted on its axis during the first months of 2026. This year is likely to represent a significant turning point for the Australian automotive industry,” he said.

“Global uncertainty, including conflict in the Middle East and volatility in petrol prices, appears to have sharpened consumer interest in vehicles that reduce exposure to fuel prices.

“While these factors have had a short-term impact, part of the EV growth would appear to be a permanent structural shift.”

EV market share has climbed steadily throughout the year, increasing from 8.4% in January to 23.4% in June, almost tripling in six months.

China also strengthened its position as Australia’s largest source of new vehicles, accounting for 46,592 VFACTS sales in June, or 35.5% of the market. Japan ranked second with 27,098 sales, followed by Thailand (23,297), South Korea (14,863) and Germany (5731).

Toyota remained Australia’s top-selling brand during June with 19,124 sales, narrowly ahead of BYD on 18,881. Ford finished third with 9181 sales, followed by Kia (8005) and Hyundai (7480).

The Ford Ranger was Australia’s best-selling vehicle in June with 5999 sales, ahead of the Toyota HiLux 4×4 (5175), BYD Sealion 7 (4730), Toyota RAV4 (4115) and BYD Shark 6 (3398).