Electric vehicles (EVs) in Australia and the UK are zipping across roads in record numbers – and these antipodean cousins who drive on the left are making great strides in incentivising EV take up. In the UK, the new electric vehicle power tariff gives motorists the advantage of driving on 1p per mile (AUD 1.5c/km) while in Australia there are state and territory-based incentives to buy EVs as well as discounted “green” car loans. With prices of EVs coming down and the upsides of ownership becoming more apparent, especially for Australians who have embraced solar power for their homes, EVs are continuing to sell more and more each year.
Amid all this ballyhoo about EVs, what are the ones moving the needle on sales in both countries? We look at the numbers.
The best selling EVs in the UK
Blazing the trail for EV sales in the UK is none other than the Tesla Model Y with 35,551 registrations (as of the end of 2023), incorporating the power, speed, and SUV comforts that the controversial marque has become renowned for. It’s quite evident why this car is so impressive. With a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 3.7 seconds, the inclusion of Tesla’s AI-powered Autopilot technology, and an impressive range of 533km on the Long-Range AWD variant, it’s clear that this vehicle is a force to be reckoned with.
Next on 19,071 registrations is the fast-to-recharge and zippy Tesla Model 3, a prominent sedan in Tesla’s lineup. Taking the bronze is the Kia e-Niro, with 11,197 registrations, another low cost yet high value SUV. The German Volkswagen ID.3 replete with fast charging software and smooth ride handling takes fourth with 9,832 registrations, and the compact yet still robust Nissan Leaf slides into fifth with 9,178 registrations.
The best selling EVs in Australia
So what are the best selling EVs in Australia? In 2023, the Tesla Model Y hatch took the crown as Australia’s top-selling EV, with an impressive 28,769 units sold – mirroring the admiration for it in the UK. Its sleek and stylish design undoubtedly played a significant role in its popularity. The Tesla Model 3, recorded sales of 17,347 units, securing its position as the second-best-selling vehicle.
Following closely behind is the Chinese-made BYD Atto 3, with impressive sales of 11,042 units. The MG 4, a notable contender, secured the fourth spot with 3,134 sales. Lastly, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, a medium-sized SUV, achieved respectable sales of 2,846 units.
Next on the horizon are the uniquely Australian EV “utes” – homegrown version of the tray/pick-up truck with an emphasis on comfort and durability, with BYD and Ford (the inventor of the ute, believe it or not) making headway into the EV market. As more fast charging sites come online, the national “electric superhighway” connecting major arterials and cities will reduce the 7.7 million square kilometres worth of anxiety Australian motorists felt at the beginning of the EV revolution. We can only wait to see if there’s an epic boom in EVs in Australia, the nation renowned for its addiction to muscle and dust.
