Rising cost-of-living pressures continue to influence vehicle purchasing decisions, with more Australians weighing up long-term running costs alongside purchase price.
Against this backdrop, BYD Australia has pointed to the potential savings offered by electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid models, as growing numbers of motorists consider alternatives to traditional petrol and diesel-powered vehicles.
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According to industry data cited by the company, an Australian driver travelling 100km in a petrol-powered vehicle can spend around $22.20 on fuel when petrol is priced at $2 per litre. By comparison, EV charging costs can be significantly lower depending on where and how the vehicle is charged.
Home charging and solar reduce costs
BYD highlighted research suggesting many EV owners primarily charge at home, where electricity costs can reduce running expenses substantially compared with petrol-powered vehicles.
For households with rooftop solar systems, charging costs can be reduced further, helping to improve the overall ownership equation for EV buyers.
The company noted that lower operating costs are becoming an increasingly important consideration for Australian motorists as household budgets remain under pressure.
Growing range of electric and hybrid models
BYD’s local line-up now spans a growing number of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid models, including the compact ATTO 2 SUV, the SHARK 6 plug-in hybrid ute and the seven-seat SEALION 8 plug-in hybrid SUV.
The expansion of available models reflects broader growth across Australia’s new energy vehicle market, with increasing competition and vehicle choice helping drive consumer interest.
Real-world ownership experience
Melbourne-based vehicle owner Peter Kokinos recently purchased a BYD ATTO 1, citing low running costs and ease of use as key factors in his decision.
“I drive it Monday to Friday. I plug it in at home once or twice a week and it gets me to and from work at very little cost,” Mr Kokinos said.
“It’s comfortable and drives like a much larger vehicle.”
His experience mirrors findings from recent EV ownership surveys, which suggest many owners report lower operating costs and convenient home charging as key benefits of electric vehicle ownership.
Technology remains a key selling point
Alongside operating cost advantages, BYD continues to emphasise its technology offering across its EV and plug-in hybrid range.
Features include the Blade Battery system, vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality that allows external devices to be powered from the vehicle, and over-the-air software updates designed to keep vehicle systems current.
These technologies have become increasingly common selling points as manufacturers compete for market share in Australia’s rapidly evolving EV sector.
Consumer attitudes continue to shift
Recent EV ownership surveys indicate that concerns around charging access, driving range and day-to-day usability often diminish after purchase, particularly among owners with access to home charging.
ABS data also shows average daily driving distances remain well within the range capabilities of most modern electric vehicles.
At the same time, government initiatives such as the Fringe Benefits Tax exemption for eligible electric vehicles have helped support EV uptake through novated leasing arrangements.
EV market continues to expand
BYD Australia Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins said more Australians were considering electrified vehicles as they assess long-term ownership costs.
“More and more Australians are recognising the financial benefits of switching to new energy vehicles such as EVs and plug-in hybrids,” Mr Collins said.
The comments come as EV and plug-in hybrid vehicle sales continue to increase across Australia, supported by broader model availability, government incentives and growing consumer awareness of ownership costs.
