Australia sees surge in electric vehicle sales and new EV apprenticeships

Electric vehicle (EV) sales in Australia are experiencing significant growth, with total sales rising from 54,000 in the first seven months of 2025 to 127,000 during the same period in 2026, a 134 per cent increase.

In South Australia, electric and hybrid vehicles accounted for approximately 23 per cent of all new vehicle sales during the first half of 2026. Battery electric vehicle sales in June specifically rose by 144 per cent compared to the previous year. In response to this demand, the South Australian government has launched the state’s first four-year trade apprenticeship dedicated to electric vehicle technology. The Certificate III in Automotive Electric Vehicle Technology, delivered by MTA Training and Employment, will train apprentices and existing workers to service, diagnose, and repair battery electric vehicles.

While EVs often have higher upfront purchase prices, analysts suggest costs may be recouped through lower running and maintenance expenses. Estimated annual charging costs for an EV are $720 compared to $1,740 for petrol vehicles, and annual servicing is estimated at $155 for an EV versus $300 for petrol. Additionally, concerns regarding battery longevity are being addressed by manufacturers like CATL, which claims some batteries can last up to two million kilometres.