Strong vehicle sales in the Northern Territory continue despite continued cost of living pressures, as hybrids begin to bite into petrol vehicle sales.
In the Northern Territory, the latest data shows new vehicle sales are 6.9 per cent higher than at the same time as last year.
Locally, strong hybrid sales are starting to cut into petrol only vehicle sales which are down 5.9 per cent year to date.
“As Territorians do their bit to lower vehicle emissions, fuel savings from hybrid vehicles are influencing buyer decisions” Motor Trade Association SA/NT (MTA) CEO Darrell Jacobs said.
“With manufacturers like Toyota signalling they will discontinue a petrol only model if a hybrid variant exists, there will be an even greater adoption of hybrid vehicles” Mr Jacobs added.
Contrasting lower sales of petrol only vehicles, diesel vehicles remain unmoved, up 0.3 per cent year to date.
“Whether for work or lifestyle, Territorians love their utes and 4X4s. Without affordable and capable hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicle equivalents this trend will continue” Mr Jacobs added.
Data also shows electric vehicle sales have flattened, making up 3.1 per cent of new car sales. Together with hybrids and plug-in hybrids, zero and low emission vehicles make up almost 20 per cent of cars sold in the Northern Territory.
The MTA cautioned of a growing skills shortage in preparing for this transition.
“Whether it is an EV or hybrid, automotive technicians require the same reskilling and safety awareness to prepare them to work on these vehicles” Mr Jacobs said.
“That is why the MTA is calling for continued government support for local businesses to reskill in time for the wave of new technology at their doorstep.”
Top 5 selling new cars in NT in 2024
- Toyota Hilux 4×4 – 768 units
- Toyota Landcruiser – 331 units
- Toyota RAV4 – 282 units
- Ford Ranger 4×4 – 204 units
- Mitsubishi Outlander – 187 units
Zero and low emission vehicles sold in NT in 2024
- Electric vehicles make up 3.1 per cent of all new cars sold in the Territory (3.4 per cent in May 2024), up 58.5 per cent compared to June 2023.
- Hybrid vehicles make up 13.6 per cent of all new cars sold in the Territory (13.5 per cent in May 2024), up 89.9 per cent compared to June 2023.
- Plug in hybrid vehicles make up 1.2 per cent (54 units) of all new cars sold in the Territory, compared with only 11 being sold in June 2023.
MTA MEDIA CONTACT: Kaes Cillessen | M: 0400 811 632 | kcillessen@mtasant.com.au
