Buying your first electric car in Australia

Most of the decision comes down to four questions: how far you drive, where you can charge, what it costs to run, and what you pay upfront.

1. How far do you drive?

Add up a normal week, then look at your longest regular trip. Advertised range uses the WLTP lab test, and real range is usually lower at highway speed and in hot or cold weather. See real-world range.

2. Where will you charge?

Charging at home overnight is the cheapest and easiest option if you have off-street parking. A normal power point works for low daily km, and a home charger is faster. See choosing a home charger and how long charging takes.

If you can't charge at home, check the public networks near you, and compare their prices with your power rate before you buy.

3. What will it cost to run?

Power is usually cheaper per km than petrol at home rates, though public fast charging can cost much more. Each vehicle page has a yearly cost you can change, including servicing, insurance, rego and depreciation. Our figures are estimates, and savings aren't guaranteed.

4. What do you pay upfront?

Check whether a price is drive-away or before on-road costs, since on-road costs can add several thousand dollars. Eligible incentives may apply, and they change, so check the current rules for your state.

Questions to ask the dealer

What is the battery warranty, in years and km?
What is its top charging speed on AC and DC?
What is included in the drive-away price?
Does it come with a charging cable, and what does it plug into?
If you tow, what is its towing limit, and how much range does towing use?

Next steps

Browse electric cars, or see the cheapest, family and longest range lists. Buying for a business? Book a free consult.