Brief Description

As recently reported, the sales of Chinese brand automobiles in the Australian market reached 145,000 units from January to September this year, representing a 75% increase compared to the same period last year. Among them, electric vehicles accounted for over half of the sales. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries in Australia predicts that by 2023, the number of Chinese automobile exports to Australia is expected to exceed 220,000 units, setting a new historical record.

Additional Information

Cost-performance

Chinese automobiles, especially electric vehicles, are increasingly favored by local consumers in Australia. Tony Weber, President of the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries in Australia, believes that Chinese cars offer a higher overall cost-performance ratio. The demand for Chinese electric vehicles has significantly increased in the Australian market this year, further boosting car sales from China.

“In Australia, Chinese electric vehicles meet the needs of some consumers who can purchase a decent performing EV for less than AUD 60,000 (USD 1 equals approximately AUD 1.5),” says Weber. He also emphasizes that continuous technological innovation is an important reason why Chinese cars are becoming more popular.

For instance, the BYD ATTO 3 from China is priced at AUD 45,000 in Australia and its “blade battery technology” offers advantages such as long range capability, high energy density, long lifespan and enhanced safety features which provide users with a comfortable driving experience and have gained increasing popularity among consumers. 

Australian senior automotive designer Knamos believes that Chinese electric vehicles have obvious advantages in after-sales service. The latest produced cars generally come with a five-star safety rating and an extended warranty period of up to 7 years. Chinese cars also offer pleasant surprises in terms of their internal configuration, including interior decorations made from plant-based leather and the latest digital screen technology, which exude a strong sense of technology.

Policy trend

Australia has placed a greater emphasis on energy conservation and emissions reduction in recent years. In 2022, the country introduced the “2022 Fiscal Legislation Amendment (Electric Vehicle Discount)” to enhance subsidies for electric vehicle purchases. Subsequently, state governments have implemented various discount policies ranging from AUD 3000 to AUD 6000, which have boosted public enthusiasm for buying electric cars. According to Boston Consulting Group’s prediction, electric vehicle sales in Australia will increase by 30% by 2023, with electric vehicles accounting for over 35% of new car sales by 2030. Industry experts believe that Chinese electric vehicles have promising prospects in the Australian market and are expected to continue their growth momentum in the future.

EVSE Suggestion

With the Chinese EVs sales increase in Australia, there is also a growing demand for car charging infrastructure. In South Australia, many areas still lack public charging stations; therefore, qualified companies can consider deploying public DC fast-charging stations. Although electricity costs in Australia are relatively high, it is worth considering the deployment of V2G (vehicle-to-grid) charging stations in places like residential areas and workplaces where vehicles need to stay for extended periods of time to reduce power loads and optimize electricity usage.