August 2026 New Car Sales: EVs overtake petrol and diesel for the first time, as Model Y takes no.1 spot
Compiled by ADME Newsroom from 2 sources
First reported by Chasing Cars ·
Image: Chasing Cars
The quick read
- Australians bought a record number of electric vehicles in August, with Tesla's Model Y becoming the country's number one selling vehicle.
- The Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux were outsold by the Model Y, highlighting a shift in consumer preference away from traditional ute and 4x4 models.
- Total new vehicle sales increased by 4.9 per cent compared to the same month last year, with 108,760 vehicles sold.
- The growth in EV sales is likely to continue, with dealers needing to adapt their business strategies to remain competitive.
For dealers: Australian dealers need to reassess their business strategies to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles and avoid being left behind by the shifting market trends.
AI-assisted summary of the coverage below — check the original reporting before relying on specifics.
ADME commentary
The ADME angle
The fact that Tesla's Model Y outsold the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux to become the country's number one selling vehicle in August is a stark reminder that the ute and 4x4 segment is no longer the sole domain of traditional manufacturers.
This shift in consumer preference has significant implications for dealers who have historically relied on the sales of these vehicles to drive their business.
What it means for the order bank
Dealers who fail to adapt to this changing landscape risk being left with a surplus of unsold petrol and diesel vehicles, which could have a significant impact on their profitability and cash flow.
The 4.9 per cent increase in total new vehicle sales compared to the same month last year suggests that there is still strong demand for new vehicles in the market, but dealers need to be strategic about the types of vehicles they are stocking.
Competitor response and pricing
As more manufacturers enter the EV market, competition is likely to increase, which could lead to downward pressure on prices and margins for dealers.
Dealers who are able to effectively market and sell EVs, such as the Tesla Model Y, will be well positioned to take advantage of this growing segment and maintain their profitability.
Taking action
This week, dealers should review their current stock and ordering processes to ensure they are aligned with the changing market dynamics and consumer preferences, and consider increasing their allocation of EVs to capitalize on this growing trend.
Full coverage
August 2026 New Car Sales: EVs overtake petrol and diesel for the first time, as Model Y takes no.1 spot
Australians bought a record number of electric vehicles last month, as Tesla’s Model Y outsold the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux to become the country’s number one selling vehicle. Sales of electric…
Read at Chasing Cars →August 2026 New Vehicle Sales
Australia’s new vehicle market recorded another strong month in August, with 108,760 vehicles sold, up 4.9 per cent compared with the same month last year. The result brings total new vehicle sales…
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