New vehicle sales in the Northern Territory maintain a healthy position as the latest data shows slowing EV sales growth.
“The Territory’s foot is still on the pedal with strong vehicle sales continuing” Motor Trade Association SA/NT (MTA) CEO Darrell Jacobs said.
In the Northern Territory, new vehicle sales are 9.4 per cent higher than at the same time as last year.
While local appetite for zero and low emission vehicles is robust, making up 17.9 per cent of all new cars sold, growth in electric vehicles is showing signs of plateauing.
“EVs enjoyed excellent growth last year, but there are clearly barriers to further adoption,” said Mr Jacobs.
Citing a lack of EV incentives available in other states and a slew of price cuts by manufacturers, Mr Jacobs said some buyers were waiting for a better deal, “Affordability remains a top consideration as cost-of-living pressures mount, and buyers are voting with their wallets.”
Ahead of the 2024 NT Election, Mr Jacobs reiterated the MTA’s calls for the NT Government to introduce incentives for electric vehicles, as well as expand these to hybrids and plug in hybrid vehicles.
The MTA’s proposal would reinstate the $3,000 incentive for electric vehicles valued below $68,750. These incentives would also be made available to plug in hybrid vehicles ($2,000 per vehicle) and traditional hybrid vehicles ($1,000 per vehicle).
“At a time when electric vehicles still command a price premium, consumer incentives are needed if we are to drive our decarbonisation.” said Mr Jacobs.
He further cautioned of speed bumps in the transition if ordinary Territorians cannot afford a zero and low emission vehicle which meets their needs.
“Whether for work or lifestyle, Territorians love their utes and 4X4s, and this is reflected in the top 5 vehicles sold this year,” said Mr Jacobs.
Top 5 selling new cars in NT in 2024
1. Toyota Hilux 4×4 – 642 units
2. Toyota Landcruiser – 254 units
3. Toyota RAV4 – 239 units
4. Ford Ranger 4×4 – 163 units
5. Mitsubishi Outlander – 143 units
Zero and low emission vehicles sold in NT in 2024
• Electric vehicles make up 3.4 per cent of all new cars sold in the Territory (3.3 per cent in April 2024), up 54.3 per cent compared to May 2023.
• Hybrid vehicles make up 13.5 per cent of all new cars sold in the Territory (14.6 per cent in April 2024), up 101 per cent compared to May 2023.
• Plug in hybrid vehicles make up 1.1 per cent (46 units) of all new cars sold in the Territory, compared with only 7 being sold in May 2023.
MTA MEDIA CONTACT: Kaes Cillessen | M: 0400 811 632 | kcillessen@mtasant.com.au
