Australian EV Sales Are Climbing in 2026 — Here's Why Novated Leasing Is Part of That Story
EV sales data for 2026 shows Australians are buying electric in growing numbers. See what the trend means if you're considering a novated lease on an EV.
According to The Driven's running 2026 sales tracker — updated monthly using Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) data — Australian EV sales are continuing to grow across both models and brands [Source 1]. That's not hype; it's the actual registration numbers, broken down month by month.
The mix of models getting traction tells you something useful: mainstream SUVs and mid-range sedans are now outselling the early-adopter prestige brands that dominated a few years ago. In plain terms, EVs are becoming normal cars, priced in a range where novated leasing genuinely changes the numbers.
What this means for novated lease customers
The FBT exemption for eligible battery electric vehicles — introduced under the Treasury Laws Amendment (Electric Car Discount) Act and still in force for vehicles under the luxury car tax threshold — means a novated lease on a qualifying EV is treated differently to a petrol car lease. You're not paying Fringe Benefits Tax on the benefit, which changes the pre-tax versus post-tax equation meaningfully.
As more models enter the market and more brands compete for volume, choice has expanded significantly. Models that were backlogged 18 months ago are now available off dealer lots or with short lead times, which matters when you're structuring a lease with a specific delivery date in mind.
The sales data from The Driven [Source 1] also signals something practical: residual values on popular EV models are becoming easier to forecast. Residual value is a core input in any novated lease quote — the more a given model sells, the more used-market data exists to price it accurately at end of term. That's less guesswork for you.
Common questions
Does the FBT exemption still apply to EVs in 2026?
Yes, the FBT exemption for eligible battery electric vehicles remains in place for vehicles under the luxury car tax threshold. Always confirm the specific vehicle you're considering qualifies before signing anything — eligibility is tied to the vehicle type and list price, not just the powertrain.
Does it matter which EV model I choose for a novated lease?
It matters in a few ways: the vehicle must be under the LCT threshold to qualify for the FBT exemption, and the model's residual value assumptions affect your lease repayments. More popular, higher-volume models tend to have more defensible residuals.
Are EV novated leases only for high-income earners?
No. The pre-tax benefit scales with your marginal tax rate, so higher earners see a larger effect — but PAYG employees across a wide income range can see a meaningful difference, particularly on the running costs component of the lease package.
What's included in a novated lease beyond the car repayment?
A fully maintained novated lease bundles registration, insurance, servicing, tyres, and often charging costs — all paid from pre-tax salary. For an EV, home charging costs can sometimes be included, which is worth clarifying with your broker.
How do I know if an EV available in 2026 is actually in stock?
Lead times vary by brand and model. The Driven's monthly sales data gives a rough read on which models are moving volume — high-volume models generally have better dealer stock. Your novated lease broker should confirm actual availability before any paperwork is signed.