Growth in new vehicle sales, including electric and hybrid vehicles have contributed to a record first quarter in South Australia.
“2023 was already a record breaker for new vehicle sales in South Australia, so to see this trend continue is a fantastic result for our industry and local economy” Motor Trade Association SA/NT (MTA) CEO Darrell Jacobs said.
In South Australia, new vehicle sales in Q1 2024 were the strongest on record, 8.7 per cent higher than at the same time last year.
“Our appetite for zero and low emission vehicles continues to surge, making up 20.3 per cent of all new cars sold.”
“This diversity in consumer preferences demonstrates that we need a holistic and technology neutral approach to driving down vehicle emissions in South Australia,” he said.
Last week, the Federal Government tabled its revised New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) in parliament, with improvements made in response to industry feedback from the MTA, together with its national body the Motor Trades Association of Australia and other state associations.
However, Mr Jacobs warned that more needs to be done in the state’s transition towards zero and low emission vehicles.
“Despite the considerable growth in electric vehicle sales, South Australians continue to love and rely on their utes and 4X4s.”
“This is reflected in the top five vehicles sold not having affordable battery electric alternatives readily available” he added.
In its recent 2024-25 State Budget submission, the MTA has called on the State Government to bring back incentives for electric vehicles, as well as expand these to hybrids and plug in hybrid vehicles.
“The NVES will undoubtedly be an important part in driving manufacturers to bring more fuel efficient vehicles to Australia” said Mr Jacobs.
“But with upfront costs remaining a barrier to many consumers, we must continue to offer incentives on the hood if we want to bring everyone along for the ride.”
Top 5 selling new cars in SA in Q1 2024
1. Ford Ranger 4X4: 932 purchased
2. Toyota Hilux 4X4: 725 purchased
3. Mitsubishi Outlander: 653 purchased
4. Toyota RAV4: 635 purchased
5. Mazda CX-5: 503 purchased
Zero and low emission vehicles sold in SA in Q1 2024
- Electric vehicles make up 7.3 per cent of all new cars sold in South Australia, up 75 per cent compared to Q1 2023.
- Hybrid vehicles make up 11.8 per cent of all new cars sold in South Australia, up 71 per cent compared to Q1 2023.
- Plug in hybrid vehicles make up 1.2 per cent of all new cars sold in South Australia, up 178 per cent compared to Q1 2023.
