South Australia has beaten its all-time new vehicle sales record for a second year in a row, with 78,709 new vehicles sold.
“Despite economic headwinds and cost of living pressures, it is remarkable that South Australia has once again set an all-time sales record” Motor Trade Association CEO Darrell Jacobs said.
South Australian new vehicle sales increased by 3.5 per cent when compared to 2023, with fleet sales to government and business making up for the slowing private and rental market.
Growth in electric vehicles slowed to 17.4 per cent, down markedly from growth of 204 per cent in 2023. Growth in the sales of hybrids (74.6 per cent) and plug-in hybrids (77.4 per cent) accelerated to a new high point.
Combined, zero and low emission vehicles (EV, hybrid and plug-in hybrid) accounted for one in four new vehicles sold in South Australia in 2024.
Mr Jacobs said “2024 was without a doubt the year of the hybrid, demonstrating evolving consumer preferences for flexible and versatile mobility”
“This is not only reflected in the Toyota RAV4 taking out top spot in 2024, but also in the announcement of the BYD Shark plug-in hybrid ute” he added.
The Federal Government’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) commenced on 1 January 2025 and from 1 July 2025, penalties and credits will begin to accrue, with manufacturers expected to adjust their product offerings.
Reflecting on the changes, Mr Jacobs predicted more change and disruption to the local vehicle market, “South Australians will see even more zero and low emission vehicles available for purchase in 2025”
“Consumer demand is slowing, purchase power is under pressure, and our unique geography will continue to place strain on infrastructure requirements.”
Noting the United Kingdom’s decision to move its ban of the sale of combustion vehicles from 2030 to 2035, Mr Jacobs said “The experience overseas is that it will be a tough road to reach government targets.”
Top 5 selling new cars in SA in 2024
1. Toyota RAV4: 4,449 purchased
2. Ford Ranger 4X4: 3,734 purchased
3. Toyota Hilux 4X4: 2,991 purchased
4. Mitsubishi Outlander: 2,509 purchased
5. Mazda CX5: 2,051 purchased
Zero and low emission vehicles sold in SA in 2024
- Electric vehicles made up 6.5 per cent of all new cars sold in South Australia, up 17.4 per cent compared to 2023.
- Hybrid vehicles made up 16 per cent of all new cars sold in South Australia, up 74.6 per cent compared to 2023.
- Plug in hybrid vehicles made up 1.9 per cent of all new cars sold in South Australia, up 77.4 per cent compared to 2023.
MTA MEDIA CONTACT: Miles Hudson | M: 0432 698 700 | mhudson@mtasant.com.au
