Australia's 2026 EV Sales Data Is In — Here's What It Tells Novated Lease Shoppers
May 2026 EV sales data is out. Here's what the numbers actually mean if you're considering an electric car on a novated lease in Australia. Read more.
The latest Australian EV sales figures for 2026 have been published by The Driven, pulling together data from the FCAI, EVC and individual manufacturers through to May [Source 1]. The data gives a model-by-model, brand-by-brand breakdown — and it paints a clearer picture of which EVs Australians are actually buying, not just considering.
This matters if you're thinking about a novated lease. The vehicles people are choosing in volume tend to be the ones with the most stable supply chains, the most competitive pricing from dealers, and — critically — the most data available to estimate your running costs and residual value.
What this means for novated lease customers
Strong EV sales momentum in Australia signals two things for novated lease shoppers: supply is improving on popular models, and the second-hand EV market is maturing — both of which affect how your residual value is set at the end of a lease term.
Under Australia's current FBT exemption for eligible battery electric vehicles, a novated lease on a qualifying EV can deliver meaningful tax advantages for PAYG employees compared to buying the same car outright — but only if the vehicle meets the eligibility thresholds set out in the relevant legislation. The models appearing most frequently in these sales charts are typically the same ones that sit within scope, though you should always confirm your specific vehicle's eligibility before signing anything.
One honest caveat: high sales volumes don't automatically make a car the right choice for your situation. Kilometre estimate, lease term, your marginal tax rate, and employer participation all shape whether a novated lease actually works in your favour. The sales data is useful context — it's not a substitute for running the numbers on your specific circumstances.
Common questions
Does buying a popular EV model make my novated lease cheaper?
Not directly, but popular models tend to have better dealer competition on price and more reliable residual value benchmarks, both of which can work in your favour over the lease term. It's one factor among many — not a guarantee of savings.
Which EVs qualify for the FBT exemption in Australia?
Broadly, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) that were first held and used on or after 1 July 2022 and sit below the luxury car tax threshold may be eligible. The rules have changed over time for PHEVs specifically, so always check the current ATO guidance for your vehicle before committing.
Is the FBT exemption still available in 2026?
As of the time of publishing, the BEV FBT exemption remains in place for eligible vehicles. Policy can change, and it's worth confirming current status with a licensed adviser — not just a forum post — before you sign a lease.
How do rising EV sales affect my car's residual value at lease end?
A broader, more liquid second-hand EV market generally supports more accurate and stable residual value estimates. That said, rapid model changes and battery technology improvements can put downward pressure on older models — something your novated lease provider should factor in when setting your residual.
Can I see which specific models are selling best before choosing my lease vehicle?
Yes — The Driven publishes a monthly breakdown by model and brand, which is a solid starting point. That data, combined with a quote from a licensed novated lease provider, will give you the most complete picture.