Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) landscape has transformed significantly over the past few years. A standout in this green revolution occurring on our roads is the plug-in hybrid (PHEV), which has gained widespread popularity, largely driven by the electric car discount.
This government incentive has made PHEVs an appealing choice for Australians looking to embrace cleaner, more efficient transport without the range anxiety associated with full-electric models. Dipping your toe into the EV landscape so to speak.
While we’ve seen the inner-city metro areas fully embrace EV ownership, PHEVs has shown to have appeal to a broader market. We believe the petrol electric crossover appeals to a diverse range of Australian’s, from city dwellers to those living in outer city (where public transport options are more limited), regional and even rural areas.
Remunerator, the pioneer of Novated Leasing in Australia, wanted to examine people purchasing a PHEV by a novated lease were located geographically, and whether they were concentrated on specific areas or did they have a broader appeal.
So we examined our database for PHEV customers and cross-referenced against their postcodes.
The results presented below show that PHEVs are now a common sight not only on city streets, but also in the greater city regions, towns and rural communities across the country.
PHEV distribution across greater Sydney and adjacent regions.
PHEV distribution across greater Perth and adjacent regions.
PHEV distribution across greater Melbourne and adjacent regions.
PHEV distribution across Northern NSW.
PHEV distribution across greater Brisbane and adjacent regions.
The regional reach of PHEVs is clearly demonstrated in the maps above. Each dot represents a suburb where one or more Remunerator’s customers PHEVs are registered.
While the presence of PHEVs becomes more concentrated towards inner city areas. There is just as much popularity among greater city and regional drivers.
This is only expected to grow especially with the first PHEV utes arriving on our shores in the coming months.
The main appeal to urban drivers is the ability to utilize the electric motor for shorter, cleaner daily commutes – especially where the charging network infrastructure is more developed.
While still offering the flexibility to these drivers for long-range trips where they can easily switch to the petrol engine.
The appeal of PHEVs extends beyond inner city areas. In regional areas, PHEVs offer a unique solution as drivers’ ability to travel long distances isn’t compromised by the charging infrastructure immediately available.
More PHEVs, offer fuel efficiency far greater than their petrol only counterparts. This has contributed to their environmental and economic benefits brought out to communities nationwide.
Manufacturers are meeting this increased demand too, each releasing their own PHEV line-up to capitalize. We’ve seen it with BYD Sealion 6, Mitsubishi’s PHEV range, Cupra, Volvo, MINI and many other brands.
With Australian’s enthusiasm for PHEVs showing no signs of slowing down, even us as a business have seen an increase in enquiry for PHEVs, there is a strong case for continuing the exemption eligibility for these vehicles.
More, many Ute PHEVs are set to arrive on Australian shores after their electric car discount FBT exemption eligibility lapses. Many key workers in Australia, such as tradies, have been isolated from experiencing the tax savings available.
The most notable PHEV ute to be released is the Ford Ranger PHEV, set to arrive in May 2025.
The PHEV FBT exemption has opened up EV and new car ownership for more Australians. More incentivizing them into lower-emissions vehicles, helping us as a nation achieve our sustainability goals.
It has been instrumental in helping both metro and regional communities transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions.
Sadly, this FBT exemption for PHEV’s expires 31st March 2025 and the car must be delivered by that date to qualify. So, if you are considering making the switch, you must act now to ensure your car is delivered in time as we see waiting lists growing!