Affordable electric vehicles have dominated new-car searches as Australian motorists face renewed pressure at petrol stations following the end of the federal government’s temporary fuel excise relief.
The 16 cents-a-litre reduction on petrol and diesel ran from July 1 until August 2, saving about $11 on a 65-litre tank. Normal excise rates returned on Monday.
Data from RACV Car Match shows models made by Chinese-owned brands BYD and MG filled the five most-searched positions during the five months of uncertainty in global fuel markets.
The BYD Atto 1 ranked first, with prices starting at just under $28,000 drive-away. It was followed by the BYD Atto 2, priced from $36,244 drive-away, and the BYD Sealion 7 mid-sized SUV, starting at $60,210.
The BYD Dolphin, priced from $31,611 drive-away, was fourth, while the MG4, starting at $30,777, completed the top five.
The figures point to growing interest in electric vehicles priced closer to mainstream petrol and hybrid models, with cost pressures appearing to influence which cars buyers are researching.
RACV recorded a 461 per cent increase in electric vehicle searches on Car Match in March compared with February, with BYD, MG and Chery among the most researched brands
RACV Head of Policy James Williams said household budgets and the cost of remaining on the road were shaping purchasing decisions.
“Cost of living and a desire to find cheaper ways to stay on the road is top of mind for Australians, and we’re seeing how that is changing our local car market and consumer preferences,” Mr Williams said.
“Manufacturers such as BYD and MG have become major players in the Australian market as motorists increasingly prioritise value for money, technology and safety features with ongoing pressure at the bowser pushing more everyday Victorians to electric.”
RACV recorded a 461 per cent increase in electric vehicle searches on Car Match in March compared with February, with BYD, MG and Chery among the most researched brands.
The search figures are consistent with national sales data showing electric and hybrid vehicles are taking a greater share of Australia’s new-car market.
The Australian Automobile Association reported this week that electric vehicle sales doubled during the three months to June 30, the largest quarterly increase recorded by its EV Index. Almost half of all new cars sold during the quarter, or 49.16 per cent, were electric or hybrid vehicles.
Lower purchase prices, however, do not remove the practical questions facing households considering the move from a petrol or diesel vehicle.
Williams urged buyers to consider their access to charging, typical travel distances and the differences between advertised and real-world driving range.
“Before purchasing an EV, we encourage motorists to look beyond the cost and ensure their vehicle is a long-term lifestyle match. Consider how and where your EV will charge, differences in driving style and driving range, and safety features.
“RACV Car Match provides a great starting point for consumers, letting buyers compare price, specification, safety ratings and estimated running costs in one place before they commit.”
RACV launched Car Match in 2025 to allow buyers to compare vehicle prices, specifications, safety ratings and estimated ownership costs through a single platform.
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