South Australia broke records in 2023, with 79,009 new vehicles sold.
“Not since 2017 have we seen such strong performance in the automotive retail sector,” Motor Trade Association CEO Darrell Jacobs said.
“South Australian new vehicle sales increased by 13.9 per cent when compared to 2022.” he said.
Electric vehicle sales similarly made their mark in 2023, continuing their year-on-year growth.
“2023 was a game changer in the uptake of electric vehicles, with sales increasing by 204 per cent when compared to 2022.” he said.
Of all new car sales in South Australia in 2023, full battery electric vehicles made up 5.7 per cent, traditional hybrids 9.5 per cent and plug in hybrids 1.1 per cent.
“South Australia’s transition to zero and low emission vehicles is well underway,” he said.
Motor Trade Association CEO Darrell Jacobs cautioned, “Vehicle affordability, charging and road infrastructure, and an appropriately skilled workforce remain top priorities if ambitions for the decarbonisation of transport are to be realised.”
The sales update follows the removal of incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles in South Australia and ahead of the announcement of the Federal Government’s proposed fuel efficiency standard.
“The MTA will continue to call for the reintroduction of incentives for electric vehicles, as well as expanding the program to all zero and low emission vehicles, regardless of technology,” he said.
“With the Federal Government’s proposed fuel efficiency standard looming large, we don’t want to see ordinary South Australians punished if they cannot afford an electric vehicle.”
Top 5 selling new cars in SA in 2023
1. Ford Ranger 4X4: 3,871 purchased
2. Toyota Hilux 4X4: 3,741 purchased
3. Mitsubishi Outlander: 2,208 purchased
4. Toyota RAV4: 2,188 purchased
5. Isuzu Ute D-Max 4X4: 2,145 purchased
MTA MEDIA CONTACT: Kaes Cillessen | M: 0400 811 632 | kcillessen@mtasant.com.au
