Explore Australia's Electric Car Options

what electric cars are available in australia

Australia has a thriving electric car market, with a range of models available to suit various budgets and preferences. From luxury vehicles like the Rolls Royce Spectre and Mercedes-Benz EQS to more affordable options such as the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Atto 3, the Australian market offers a diverse selection of electric vehicles (EVs). Traditional carmakers like Audi, BMW, and Ford are expanding their EV offerings, while newcomers like Tesla, MG, and BYD are gaining popularity. With the growing demand for EVs, the Australian market is expected to continue evolving and expanding its offerings in the coming years.

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BMW iX large SUV

BMW's flagship electric SUV, the iX, is available in Australia in four trims: xDrive40, xDrive40 Sport, xDrive50 Sport, and M60. The iX is a large luxury SUV offered in a 5D SUV body style with a boldly styled face and an illuminated grille. The cheapest variant is the Sport, starting from $136,900, while the most expensive is the Base, starting from $233,400. The iX offers a pure electric range of up to 522 km, with a charging time of 5 hours when connected to a 22 kW Wallbox or AC charging station.

The BMW iX combines the presence of a BMW X with exciting electric driving characteristics. It boasts optimum suspension, large wheels, powerful engines, and a low centre of gravity, delivering exceptional agility. The iX also features an adaptive 2-axle air suspension that adjusts the chassis automatically or manually, making it easier to manoeuvre in narrow spaces.

The interior of the iX is exclusive and minimalist, creating a relaxing ambience with ergonomic positioning for the comfort of the driver and passengers. The spacious interior includes a large Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, which can be darkened at the push of a button, and a spacious luggage compartment. The M multifunction seats offer excellent support and numerous adjustment options to adapt to the driver's body.

The BMW iX is equipped with a large, floating Curved Display angled towards the driver, along with a Head-up Display. It offers a 5-year, unlimited km warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers. Overall, the BMW iX is a well-rounded electric SUV that offers a dynamic driving experience, a flexible and spacious interior, and a high-tech cockpit.

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Tesla Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is a 5-star ANCAP safety-rated electric sedan. It comes in three variants: rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and performance. The Model 3 has a range of up to 629 kilometres on a single charge and features an all-new interior design. The car is equipped with an advanced audio system, designed by Tesla, featuring up to 17 speakers, dual subwoofers, and dual amplifiers. It also has a rear 8" touchscreen with climate controls and entertainment for passengers.

The Model 3 comes with a number of safety features, including energy-absorbing side sills, a fortified battery pack mounted low in the vehicle to reduce rollover risk, and a metal body structure that can withstand forces many times the car's weight. Additionally, it comes with standard active safety features such as automatic emergency braking and Autopilot, which enables the vehicle to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically within its lane under the driver's supervision.

The Tesla Model 3 is also equipped with wireless charging capabilities, allowing for the simultaneous charging of two phones. The cabin features 360-degree acoustic glass, creating a whisper-quiet interior, and an all-glass roof that lets in light while blocking harmful UV rays.

The Model 3 offers a combination of performance, safety, and technological features, making it a popular choice for buyers seeking an electric vehicle in Australia.

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Volkswagen ID.3

The Volkswagen ID.3 is a highly anticipated electric vehicle in Australia. Expected to be priced under $60,000, it aims to maximise national and state-based electric vehicle incentives. While the exact price is not yet clear, Volkswagen has hinted at ""genuinely affordable" pricing, potentially in the $40,000 range. This would make it one of the most affordable electric vehicles in the country, competing with the MG ZS EV Essence SUV, which currently holds the title at a drive-away price of $43,990.

The ID.3 GTX sports variant is expected to arrive in Australia simultaneously with the standard variants. The GTX model offers a unique and dynamic type of electric mobility, with an individual technical setup and an independent exterior design. The top-of-the-line model, the ID.3 GTX Performance, is described as a snappy, compact sports car with superior power delivery. It guarantees a driving pleasure similar to that of the Golf GTI Clubsport.

The Volkswagen ID.3 is expected to be similar in size to the Tiguan and will rival other electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Toyota bZ4X. While there have been delays in its release, Volkswagen remains committed to bringing the ID.3 to the Australian market, recognising the demand for affordable electric vehicles.

The ID.3 is part of Volkswagen's expansion of its sporty GTX models, offering a range of power and design options to cater to various buyer preferences. With its unique features and competitive pricing, the Volkswagen ID.3 is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle market in Australia.

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Kia EV5

The Kia EV5 is a mid-size electric SUV that is expected to be released in Australia in 2025. It is the first Kia sold in Australia to be built on a Chinese production line, and it offers two battery options: a 64kWh pack for the Standard Range and an 88kWh pack for the Long-Range variants. The Long-Range models provide a driving range exceeding 600km. The EV5's augmented reality HUD projects key information such as speed, navigation guidance, and lane safety onto the windscreen. The vehicle also features a customizable multicolour interior mood lamp and an electronic shift-by-wire on the steering column. The premium sound system offers an immersive audio experience.

The Kia EV5 has a fully digital 75cm panoramic display that provides crucial driving information, climate control settings, and infotainment data. The 12.3" infotainment touchscreen can be customized with drag-and-drop widgets. The EV5's multi-charging system is compatible with both 400V and 800V chargers, providing more options for charging on the go. The vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature allows the EV5 to power electronics and home appliances using an outdoor V2L connector or an interior V2L outlet in the boot.

The Kia EV5 is available in single-motor (Air) or dual-motor (Earth and GT-Line) configurations. The GT-Line is the highest trim level, offering a smaller rear motor and a large 84kWh battery that delivers a range of 470km. The mid-tier Earth trim can be paired with Nougat Beige seats, while the GT-Line is only available with Smoky Black vinyl. The EV5 Earth has a spacious and premium interior, providing ample room for first- and second-row passengers.

The Kia EV5 has received mixed reviews. While some appreciate its spacious interior, V2L functionality, and competitive pricing compared to rivals such as the Tesla Model Y, others have criticized its handling, particularly on poor surfaces and winding roads. The EV5 is expected to be popular for urban ridesharing in cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

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BYD Atto 3

One of China's biggest electric carmakers, BYD, launched its Atto 3 in Australia in 2022. The BYD Atto 3 is a compact electric SUV that is one of the most affordable EVs in the country. The mid-size SUV is the right size to appeal to buyers who may be considering switching to electric. The BYD Atto 3 offers two battery sizes: a 50.1kWh version with a driving range of 320km, and a 60.4kWh version with a range of 420km. The latest model has a maximum towing capacity of 750kg. The BYD Atto 3 Standard Range has a 49.92kWh 'Blade' lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery, while the Extended Range has a bigger 60.48kWh battery. The Standard Range starts at $39,990, and the Extended Range is priced at $44,990. The BYD Atto 3 can be charged at home using a 7kW AC wall unit, which costs between $800 and $2000, plus additional charges depending on the energy provider and state.

The BYD Atto 3 has a boot space of 440 litres, which is considered respectable for its size. However, it only comes with a tyre repair kit instead of a spare. The SUV has a 0-100km/h time of 7.9 seconds for the Standard Range and 7.3 seconds for the Extended Range. The BYD Atto 3 has space for five passengers, and the seats are described as a little flat and firm. The SUV comes in four colours: Cosmos Black, Surf Blue, Boulder Grey, and Ski White.

The BYD Atto 3 features LED headlights, a power tailgate, faux leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a 5.0-inch digital instrument panel, and built-in satellite navigation. It offers a range of wheel and tyre options, with tyres ranging from 215x60 R17 for the SUV variant in 2025 and wheel sizes spanning from 17 inches. The BYD Atto 3 has a single-speed transmission and a front-mounted electric motor that delivers 150kW/310Nm, driving the front wheels.

The BYD Atto 3 is built in China, Thailand, and India, with Australian models produced in China, specifically in Changzhou, Jiangsu. BYD listened to customer feedback and updated the Atto 3, which was named the 2023 Drive Car of the Year and best EV under $70,000. The BYD Atto 3 offers impressive features and value, making it a strong choice in the Australian electric car market.

Frequently asked questions

Some options include the EX40, which starts at $79,990, the Volkswagen ID.3, which is expected to be priced under $60,000, and the Kia EV5, which has a mid-range option at $63,990.

The BMW iX large SUV is available in four trims, ranging from premium to ultra-premium. The Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 4MATIC is another option, priced at around $100,000.

Yes, the Rolls Royce Spectre is a luxury electric car with a starting price of $770,000.

Some well-known electric car brands in Australia include Tesla, BMW, Volkswagen, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, BYD, and Audi.

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