Australia’s Electric Vehicle Market Shifts Gears
The BYD Sealion 7 has officially become Australia’s best-selling electric vehicle, dethroning the Tesla Model Y for the first time. This change in leadership comes as Tesla prepares to launch a new Model Y, which has likely contributed to the current model’s slumping sales.
The BYD Sealion 7, which debuted in Australia earlier this year, has made a significant impact with its competitive pricing, starting at $54,990. Last month, it sold 734 units, compared to the Tesla Model Y’s 280 sales – a 76% drop from the same period last year. The Tesla Model 3 also experienced a decline, falling to 10th place with just 220 sales.
Several factors have contributed to Tesla’s slump. The impending launch of the new Model Y has led to stock shortages at dealerships across the country. Additionally, Elon Musk’s political activities have resulted in protests at Tesla dealerships and a 13% global decline in sales during Q1 2025.
The Australian EV market is becoming increasingly competitive. The MG4 secured second place with 363 sales, followed closely by the BYD Atto 3 (355 units) and Kia EV5 (342 units). The narrow margin between second and seventh place, with just 39 units separating them, highlights the fierce competition in the market.
While overall EV sales decreased by 44.2% compared to April 2024, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) saw a significant 95% year-on-year increase, despite an initial sales plunge following the removal of the Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption. The BYD Shark 6 led the PHEV segment.
In the hybrid market, Toyota maintained its dominance with the RAV4, Corolla, and Corolla Cross occupying the top three positions. Hyundai also made a strong showing with the Tucson and Kona.
The evolving landscape of Australia’s electric vehicle market is marked by new challengers like BYD making their mark. As the shift towards electric continues, the competition is expected to intensify further.
Australia’s Top 10 Best-Selling EVs (April 2025)
- BYD Sealion 7 – 743 units
- MG MG4 – 363 units
- BYD Atto 3 – 355 units
- Kia EV5 – 342 units
- Kia EV3 – 336 units
- BYD Seal – 325 units
- Geely EX5 – 324 units
- Tesla Model Y – 280 units
- MG ZS – 227 units
- Tesla Model 3 – 220 units
