You’d have to be living under a rock not to have noticed the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles, with the most talked-about brand being Tesla, owned by you-know-who.
Many Australians are choosing electric and hybrid vehicles for reasons like lower emissions, a reduced environmental impact and better fuel efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
But despite the buzz around EVs, the majority of car buyers still choose petrol or diesel. According to the Australian Automobile Association, more than 72 per cent of all new light vehicles sold today still have petrol or diesel engines. This figure is falling steadily though, down from 88 per cent just three years ago.
Who is leading the way?
Toyota continues to dominate the Australian car market across all fuel types, including petrol, hybrid and electric. Among fully electric vehicles, Tesla remains the top-selling EV brand.
Why does this matter for you?
Hybrid vehicles are gaining serious momentum, now accounting for around 16 per cent of year-to-date new car sales. This is timely, given that from July 1 the federal government introduced new penalties for manufacturers who exceed emissions limits.
These penalties will likely be passed on to buyers through higher prices on higher-emission vehicles. This shift in policy, combined with rising consumer demand, is making hybrids an attractive choice for many Australians.
Why hybrids make sense right now
While EVs are growing in popularity, Australia still lacks the infrastructure needed for widespread adoption. Public charging stations remain limited, charging takes longer than refuelling, and once you leave the major cities, the vast distances between towns become a real challenge.
Hybrids offer the best of both worlds. You can drive on electric power as much as possible but have petrol as a backup when charging is not an option. Hybrids also tend to be more affordable to purchase than full EVs and cheaper to run than a traditional ICE vehicle.
Australia’s favourite hybrids
So, which hybrid vehicles are topping the charts?
Here are the five best-selling hybrid models in Australia so far in 2024:
-
Toyota Camry Ascent
-
Toyota Corolla Cross GX
-
Toyota RAV4 GX
-
Toyota Kluger
-
Toyota Yaris
Not keen on a Toyota? Other popular hybrid options include the BYD Sealion 7, Hyundai Kona, GWM Haval H6 and the Lexus NX.
Financing your next car
Whether you are buying a petrol, hybrid or fully electric car, we can help you secure the right finance for your needs. We work with a wide range of lenders who offer competitive car loans for both new and used vehicles.
We also have access to a trusted car broker who can help you source your desired make and model, often faster and at a better price than going directly to a dealership.
If you’re considering a hybrid or just want to explore your options, get in touch with us today. We’d love to help you get on the road in the right car for your lifestyle and budget.