Australian EV Sales 2026: What the Data Tells Employees
Australia's 2026 EV sales figures are in. Here's what the monthly model-by-model data means if you're considering a novated lease on an electric car.
Australia's EV market keeps ticking upward in 2026. The Driven has published a full month-by-month breakdown of electric vehicle sales across every model and brand sold in Australia this year, with May data now included from the Electric Vehicle Council ([Source 1]).
The headline is straightforward: more Australians are buying EVs, and a meaningful share of those purchases are being made through novated leases. That's not surprising — the FBT exemption on eligible EVs remains one of the few genuinely useful tax concessions available to PAYG employees right now.
What this means for novated lease customers
When EV sales volumes rise, a few practical things follow. Dealer negotiating power shifts slightly toward buyers on popular models, residual value projections get more data to work with, and lenders become more comfortable with a wider range of makes and models.
For someone considering a novated lease, higher sales volumes across multiple brands also means more choice — you're no longer limited to one or two proven models if you want confidence that the car will hold reasonable value. That said, residual values on EVs remain less predictable than on equivalent petrol vehicles, so it's worth pressure-testing the numbers before you sign.
The FBT exemption that makes EVs so attractive on a novated lease has not changed — eligible battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids under the luxury car tax threshold remain exempt from fringe benefits tax under current law. More units on Australian roads also makes a stronger political case for keeping that policy in place, though nothing is guaranteed at future budgets.
Common questions
Does higher EV demand mean I'll pay more for a novated lease?
Not necessarily. Vehicle price is set by the manufacturer or dealer — the novated lease structure sits on top of that. What matters is the drive-away price you negotiate and the residual value set at the end of the term. A reputable broker should help you benchmark both.
Which EVs are actually selling well in Australia in 2026?
The Driven's monthly breakdown tracks every model sold in Australia by the Electric Vehicle Council. Check the source data directly for the most current rankings — model popularity shifts month to month.
Is the FBT exemption still available for EVs in 2026?
Yes, as of the date of this page, the FBT exemption for eligible EVs under the luxury car tax threshold remains in force. Tax law can change — always confirm current eligibility with your advisor or broker before committing.
Does a popular model make a better novated lease candidate?
Generally, higher-volume models tend to have more competitive pricing and more liquid used markets, which can support residual values. It's one factor worth considering alongside running costs, charging practicality, and your actual driving needs.
Can I novated lease any EV on the Australian market?
Most new EVs sold in Australia can be financed through a novated lease, but FBT exemption eligibility depends on the vehicle's price relative to the luxury car tax threshold and its classification. A broker can confirm eligibility for a specific model before you go any further.