EV sales hit record 20 pct share in May, as Tesla, BYD, Jaecoo and Geely surge and diesel utes slump

Electric vehicle (EV) sales in Australia reached a new milestone in May, capturing a record 20 per cent share of all new vehicle sales. This marked a significant increase from April’s previous high of 16.4 per cent and represented more than double the market share from the same period last year. Despite a general decline in total vehicle sales to 106,887 units, EV sales surged to 21,303, driven by strong performances from leading brands such as Tesla, BYD, Jaecoo, and Geely. Tesla led the EV market with its best-ever monthly sales, particularly with the Model Y electric SUV, which sold 5,605 units and became the top-selling vehicle of any type in Australia. The Omoda Jaecoo J5 and Geely EX5 also posted record sales figures, ranking among the top 11 best-selling models nationwide. BYD, which is expanding its Australian presence with an additional 30,000 EVs, was the third-best selling brand and featured five models in the top 10 electric vehicles, highlighting the growing consumer appetite for a broader range of EV options. The surge in EV sales coincided with a sharp decline in diesel vehicle demand, especially diesel utes and SUVs, which fell by 16.4 per cent and over 40 per cent respectively compared to the previous year. Toyota has responded to this shift by opening orders for an electric version of its popular Hilux ute. Industry leaders emphasised the need for improved charging infrastructure to support the accelerating transition to electric vehicles, with calls for continued investment and supportive policies to keep pace with consumer adoption. The Electric Vehicle Council praised the record sales as a turning point for the Australian EV market, noting that rising fuel prices have pushed more consumers to consider electric alternatives for their cost savings and convenience. FCAI CEO Tony Weber observed a rapid change in consumer preferences, particularly in the SUV segment, where hybrids and electric models are increasingly favoured. With the end of the financial year approaching, manufacturers with substantial EV stock, such as BYD, are well-positioned to attract many first-time EV buyers, signalling further growth in the sector.