Australia’s growing mobility demands are under pressure from cost-of-living constraints, slow uptake of electric vehicles, and caution around autonomous technology, according to the 2025 mycar Mobility Index.
Now in its second year, the nationwide survey of more than 2000 vehicle owners highlights emerging challenges and evolving sentiment across transport technologies, car ownership habits, and the role of servicing and safety.
Cost pressures change car servicing habits
Australians are now spending an average of $447 per week on transport, representing 16% of household budgets. This cost has outpaced inflation by a factor of three, and is shaping how people approach car maintenance.
The report found that 66% of respondents have changed their servicing behaviour in response to rising expenses. One in six admit they’ve delayed regular services, and 12% are performing maintenance tasks themselves rather than going to a mechanic.
Adele Coswello, Chief Customer Officer at mycar, said there’s a clear shift in behaviour.
“It’s tempting to take shortcuts when finances are tight, but professional servicing remains the safest way to ensure long-term performance, safety and value,” she said. “To help our customers feel more confident, we’ve developed tools like Auto-Translate to break down technical jargon into everyday language. But when it comes to maintenance, expert service remains essential.”
Despite industry recommendations for six-monthly servicing, the national average has stretched to nine months, and over a third of drivers now service their vehicles only once every 10–12 months.
Australians hesitant on EVs despite global growth
While battery electric vehicles are gaining popularity in markets like China and Norway, Australian drivers remain reluctant. Only 23% of internal combustion engine (ICE) drivers plan to switch to an EV or hybrid — a 12-point drop from 2024.
The report identifies multiple reasons behind this shift: 25% are concerned about battery longevity and ownership costs, 11% worry about resale value, and only 5% would consider a second-hand EV, with many citing lack of trust and concerns over hidden issues.
Yet, confidence in newer technology remains a potential turning point. Coswello said:
“This year’s Mobility Index shows a noticeable shift in sentiment. While interest in EVs appears to be growing, many Australians are holding back. mycar is helping bridge the gap by offering EV-ready stores and mobile servicing that can come to the home or workplace.”
Work needed to support the EV transition
While consumer trust is a major factor, systemic support is also required to help the industry adapt. Stuart Charity, CEO of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), said technicians, infrastructure, and training need greater investment.
“Australians are open to embracing new vehicle technologies, but confidence hinges on more than just the showroom experience,” Charity said. “To truly support the transition to EVs and emerging systems, we need to assure drivers these vehicles can be safely and affordably serviced right across the country. The Government has a vital role to play in backing the workforce that will keep these vehicles on the road.”
Slow adoption of autonomous technology
Despite global headlines around self-driving cars, only 19% of Australians would use a fully autonomous vehicle if one were legally available today. Forty percent said they would not feel comfortable relinquishing control.
Even assisted-driving technology remains underutilised, despite being widely available. Only a third of drivers report using adaptive cruise control or lane assist, and fewer still have engaged features like assisted parking or brake assist.
Coswello says trust remains a key hurdle: “Autonomous technology has the potential to change how we move, but right now, trust is the biggest roadblock. Many Australians are still unsure — not just about the safety of self-driving cars, but how they work and what they mean for everyday drivers.”
SUVs still dominate, but safety concerns grow
Large vehicles remain popular with Australian buyers, with SUVs, crossovers and utes making up 57% of new car sales in 2024. Drivers cite interior space, elevated driving position, and comfort as key reasons for their appeal.
However, growing vehicle sizes are raising safety concerns, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists. Studies cited in the report show that taller front-end vehicle designs can reduce visibility and are associated with a higher risk of injury in crashes.
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