New research from Green.com.au reveals that 48.6% of current EV owners won't purchase another electric vehicle, highlighting a significant retention challenge as Australia's electric vehicle market continues to expand.

The findings expose a disconnect between EV expectations and ownership experience. Intent to purchase an EV as next vehicle actually goes down after ownership, with only 48.6% of current owners planning to repurchase compared to 59% of non-EV owners considering the switch.

EV Market Reality Check:

• Current EV owners: 48.6% won't buy electric again
• Non-EV owners: 59% considering electric purchase
• EVs represent less than 2% of Australia's 16 million registered vehicles
• Only 2 of top 10 selling vehicles are EVs (Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7)

Despite progress in new vehicle sales, where EVs now account for 11% of purchases, the retention challenge threatens long-term market growth. With over 300,000 EVs currently on Australian roads, the potential for owners to return to internal combustion engines could significantly curtail the sector's expansion.

Ownership Experience Contradicts Market Momentum

Green.com.au's findings reveal that nearly half of current EV owners won't even consider purchasing another electric vehicle for their next car. What's particularly revealing is that purchase intent is higher among non-EV owners (59%), indicating the allure of EV ownership drops significantly post-purchase, suggesting unfulfilled expectations around infrastructure, user experience, and daily practicality.

Infrastructure Gaps Dampen Owner Satisfaction

While EV prices have decreased and brand variety has expanded, ownership realities haven't matched expectations for many early adopters.

"This data reveals a critical retention crisis that could derail Australia's EV transition," said Dave Green, founder of Green.com.au. "The industry has focused heavily on converting new buyers, but if half of current owners are walking away, we're essentially running on a treadmill. The real challenge isn't just selling EVs, it's making ownership work for everyday Australians."

The findings highlight critical gaps that could undermine Australia's electric vehicle transition, despite government incentives and growing environmental awareness driving initial interest.

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About Green.com.au

Green.com.au was (co-)founded in 2020 by David Green as an Australian-wide planner and installer of consumer and commercial renewable energy solutions including Solar Panels, Solar Batteries, Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), EV Chargers and Heat Pumps.

Green.com.au is a Platinum Member of the Smart Energy Council.

Certifications

• NETCC Approved (New Energy Technology Consumer Code)
• Tesla Powerwall Certified Installer
• REC Solar Professional
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Recognition

• Top 5 Battery Installer 2024 (as per SunWiz)
• 200+ 5 star google reviews
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• Alpha ESS Premium Retail Partner 2025 (3 in Australia)
• AFR Fast 100 Top 20
• 2nd in the SmartCompany Smart50
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David Green, Green.com.au CEO

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