A sharp rise in oil prices driven by conflict involving Israel, the US and Iran is pushing Australians towards electric vehicles and underpinning record EV sales. Fresh data from Carsales shows 35% of Australians say they are most likely to be driving an EV in the next 10 years, compared with 22% nominating petrol or hybrid cars.
Earlier worries around battery health and driving range are losing influence as ownership grows and charging networks expand. The trend is described as a permanent shift rather than a temporary reaction to fuel price shocks.
Carsales also reports a rapid jump in purchase intent, with the share of Australians considering buying an EV lifting from 36% in November to 54% now. That surge means more than half the market is at least open to going electric, a striking change in just a few months.
Researchers say long-term planning plays a crucial role, as buyers weigh running costs, technology improvements and policy signals when deciding what their next car should be. EVs now sit at the top of that mental shortlist for many drivers across the country.
