Australia's new vehicle market continued its strong performance in October, recording 103,325 sales, an increase of 3.8 per cent compared with the same month last year.
Figures released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) show battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 23.1 per cent of sales from all sources, almost three times their 7.3 per cent share in October 2025.
FCAI chief executive Tony Weber attributed the growth to increasing competition, greater consumer choice and demand for more economical vehicles.
“Australia’s open and competitive market has put consumers in the driver’s seat, with more choice across brands, technologies, features and price points,” Weber said.
The FCAI identified sustained higher fuel prices, instability in the Middle East and Federal Government tax concessions as contributing factors behind strong electric vehicle demand.
Meanwhile, petrol vehicle sales declined 35.9 per cent compared with October last year, while diesel sales fell 14.7 per cent.
“Despite continuing pressure on household budgets and higher borrowing costs in 2026, the October result shows there is extraordinary resilience in new vehicle demand,” Weber said.
He also stressed the importance of ensuring Australia's charging infrastructure kept pace with increasing electric vehicle adoption.
China strengthened its position as Australia's largest source of new vehicles recorded through VFACTS, accounting for 36.3 per cent of sales.
Japan followed with 23.3 per cent, ahead of Thailand on 17.9 per cent and South Korea on 9.2 per cent.
Toyota remained Australia's leading manufacturer with 20,649 sales, followed by BYD with 10,025 and Ford with 7,310.
Kia recorded 5,801 sales, narrowly ahead of Mazda on 5,730, while MG, Hyundai, GWM, Geely and Chery completed the top ten brands.
The Toyota HiLux was Australia's best-selling vehicle with 5,954 sales, ahead of the Ford Ranger on 4,841 and Toyota RAV4 on 4,718.
The BYD Sealion 7 ranked fourth with 2,524 sales, highlighting the growing presence of electric vehicles among Australia's most popular models.
The results underline the continuing transformation of Australia's automotive market as new brands and technologies challenge established manufacturers.