Electrified vehicles reach 46% of WA new car sales as demand remains resilient

MEDIA RELEASE

6 May 2026

EV Sales April 2026

Electrified vehicles now account for 46% of all new car sales in Western Australia, according to new data released this week, highlighting a significant shift in the composition of the State’s vehicle market.

The result reflects a rapid increase in the uptake of battery electric vehicles (EVs), alongside continued demand for other electrified vehicles (including hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles.)

In January this year, EVs accounted for around 7% of new car sales, with total electrified vehicles representing approximately 30% of the market. By April, those figures had increased to 15% for EVs alone and 46% for electrified vehicles overall, highlighting the pace of change.

While overall electrified vehicle sales have increased strongly, the composition within the segment is also evolving, with battery electric vehicles accounting for a growing share of that expansion.

At the same time, new vehicle sales in Western Australia recorded a 4.4% increase in April compared to April 2025.

Motor Trade Association of Western Australia Group CEO Neil Le Febvre said the data indicates that while evolving demand for new vehicles remains strong, motorists are seeking long-term relief from volatile fuel prices. “What we are seeing is an obvious and decisive trend during a time of unprecedented fuel costs.”

“Almost one in two new vehicles sold in Western Australia is now electrified, which is a significant milestone for the industry.”

“We are seeing strong growth in fully electric vehicles in particular, even as other technologies continue to play an important role in the overall market.”

“At the same time, April’s growth shows that demand remains resilient. People still need reliable transport for work, business and family use, regardless of short-term fuel price movements.”

Nationally, strong growth in EV, hybrid and plug-in hybrid sales has contributed to overall market performance, even as petrol and diesel vehicles decline as a share of total sales.

Mr Le Febvre said the shift reflects longer-term structural changes in the market.

“Policy settings like the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard will influence what vehicles are supplied into Australia, and that will naturally shape consumer choice over time.”

MTA WA has welcomed the Federal Government announcement this week which confirmed that the Electric Car Discount will remain in place in the near term, with most eligible vehicles continuing to receive the full benefit until 2027 before being progressively scaled back.

Mr Le Febvre said the pace of change highlights the importance of forward planning in Western Australia.

“The rate of change we are seeing underscores the need for Western Australia’s next electric vehicle strategy to reflect the reality of the market.”

“That includes ensuring we continue to invest in the infrastructure that supports the transition, particularly charging networks, as well as the skills and training required across the automotive workforce.”

“Other jurisdictions are already moving in this direction, and it is important Western Australia remains aligned with national trends while recognising the unique needs of our State.”

Mr Le Febvre said maintaining stable and predictable policy settings will be critical as the market evolves.

“Certainty gives consumers confidence to make informed decisions and allows industry to plan and invest.”

“It’s important that the transition works for the full diversity of the Western Australian market across metropolitan, regional and industry use cases.”