The Ford Ranger has continued to stake its claim as Australia’s favourite vehicle over Toyota’s HiLux.
Sales data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has revealed the Ranger topped the sales charts in February, selling 5,353 units.
The HiLux followed with 4,403 vehicles sold last month. FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said the high demand for utes highlighted the challenges a fuel emission standard will need to overcome.
“Australian motorists’ strong preference for Utes, accounting for 20.3 per cent of sales this month, demonstrates the challenges with the proposed New Vehicle Emissions Standard,” he said.
“Out of 21,327 utes sold in February, only one was an EV.”
These latest figures come as Kia announced it’ll be entering the Australian ute market next year.
Charged up
While the selection of EV utes remains limited, Tesla popularity remains strong with 3,593 Model 3s sold in February. This was a 34.5 per cent increase on the vehicle’s sales in 2023.
“Growing sales of electric vehicles across other market segments proves that where a battery electric product exists which suits the driving habits of Australian motorists, work and recreation needs they will purchase these vehicles,” Mr Weber said.