Australia’s appetite for hybrid vehicles continued to grow in September 2025, as both plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and traditional hybrids (HEVs) posted notable sales gains, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences amid rising electric vehicle adoption.
PHEVs and HEVs show strong growth in September
According to VFACTS data, PHEVs recorded 4,491 sales in September, accounting for 4.4% of the total new-vehicle market, lifting their year-to-date share to 4.2%. Meanwhile, traditional hybrid vehicles also grew steadily, with SUV hybrids posting 2,677 sales in September, up from 2,398 in the same month last year.
The Toyota RAV4 remained the country’s leading hybrid SUV in September, while the Ford Ranger also performed strongly, showing that hybrid options are increasingly influencing mainstream SUV sales.
Chinese brands boost PHEV sales
Chinese automakers continued to expand their presence in the Australian hybrid segment in September. BYD, Chery, and other Chinese brands accounted for a significant portion of PHEV sales, with BYD’s Sealion 7 mid-size electric SUV and Shark 6 PHEV dual-cab ute leading the charge. China now represents the second-largest source of new cars in Australia, accounting for 77.5% of all battery electric vehicle sales this year, which highlights its growing influence on the local electrified vehicle market.
Industry perspective
Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries CEO Tony Weber highlighted the encouraging signs for EV and hybrid adoption in September, while emphasising the need for broader market support.
“There is no shortage of battery electric vehicles on the market in Australia. With more than 100 BEVs and more than 50 PHEVs available, manufacturers have worked hard to provide Australians with high-quality electric vehicles. What is needed now is a stronger focus on encouraging demand, in particular public recharging infrastructure,” Weber said.
He added that increasing consumer confidence in EVs and hybrids will be essential to move ownership beyond early adopters and into the mainstream. The federal government’s recent $40 million investment in public charging infrastructure is a first step, but more support will be required to accelerate the transition.
Looking ahead
With over 50 PHEV models and more than 100 BEVs (including different trims) now available in Australia, hybrids continue to serve as a crucial bridge for consumers navigating the shift away from petrol and diesel vehicles. Analysts expect hybrid SUVs to continue driving growth in September and beyond, as buyers seek a combination of efficiency, practicality, and familiarity.
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