Record increases in petrol prices have accelerated electric vehicle (EV) uptake across Western Australia, with the latest data showing a sharp rise in demand.
Electric vehicle sales in Western Australia grew 185.9 per cent in March 2026 compared to March 2025, significantly outpacing the national increase of 126.9 per cent over the same period.
The surge follows a dramatic rise in fuel prices throughout March, with average petrol prices in Perth climbing from 162.1 cents per litre at the start of the month to 251.7 cents per litre by month’s end. The spike, driven by global supply pressures and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, has prompted many motorists to reconsider the long-term cost of petrol and diesel vehicles.
Electric vehicle sales also accelerated strongly month on month, building on an already robust February in which EV sales more than doubled compared to the same time last year, despite an overall decline in the broader new vehicle market. March delivered the strongest monthly EV result ever recorded in Western Australia.
Zero emission vehicles are now capturing a record share of new vehicle sales in the state, even as total vehicle sales soften, highlighting a clear shift in consumer preferences toward lower running cost options.
Running costs have consistently been one of the top considerations for consumers when evaluating electric vehicles. The recent surge in petrol prices has brought this factor into sharper focus, driving increased interest and conversion among previously undecided buyers.
The government has done well in developing the world’s largest EV-charging highways, and now is not the time to scale back incentives and rebates for electric vehicles or the infrastructure that supports them. Ongoing policy certainty is critical to maintaining consumer confidence and supporting industry investment. While all road users should contribute fairly to the upkeep of our road network, any road user charging framework must be equitable, transparent, and applied consistently across all motorists, without undermining the transition to cleaner vehicle technologies.
This shift is particularly notable in Perth, which has historically recorded the lowest level of EV purchase consideration among major metropolitan centres. While only around 30 per cent of Perth consumers had previously considered an EV compared to approximately 55 per cent in Sydney, current sales growth indicates Western Australia is now outpacing the national average.
Motor Trade Association of Western Australia Chief Executive Officer Neil Le Febvre said the figures reflect a decisive change in consumer behaviour.
“Recent fuel price increases appear to have given many consumers who were on the fence that final push toward electric vehicle adoption,” Mr Le Febvre said.
“The strength of EV growth we’re seeing in Western Australia shows that motorists are looking for certainty in running costs and long-term value.”
Despite the strong growth in EV sales, broader market conditions remain challenging, with total new vehicle sales softening amid ongoing cost of living pressures.
Mr Le Febvre said the rapid increase in EV adoption presents both opportunities and challenges for the industry.
“As more electric vehicles enter the market, we are seeing a growing need for expanded charging infrastructure across Western Australia, particularly in regional areas,” he said.
“There is also increasing demand for EV-trained technicians and repairers to support the state’s evolving vehicle fleet.”
For Media Enquiries contact Carley Angel 0475809393 carley@snackpr.com.au