Coasties embrace electric vehicles

Central Coast motorists are embracing electric vehicles (EV), with the 2250 postcode ranking sixth in NSW for the highest uptake of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Latest data from the National Automotive Leasing and Salary Packaging Association (NALSPA) shows the postcode, which embraces Gosford, Wyoming and Erina, has the sixth highest uptake of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) via novated leases, since the Federal Government introduced its EV discount in December 2022, applying retrospectively from July 2022.

Prior to the exemption, total BEV/PHEV sales represented about two per cent of total SUV and passenger sales in the Australian market.

Now they represent more than 14 per cent.

Of all BEV and PHEVs being sold in Australia today, it is estimated that at least 40 per cent (and possibly more) are via a novated lease arrangement.

NALSPA chief executive Rohan Martin said the discount was helping more everyday Australians go electric when they otherwise wouldn’t have.

“As the cost of living continues to bite, everyday working Australians are taking advantage of the significant savings discount on electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles through salary packaging,” he said.

“Everyday workers living in the suburbs are noticing more than ever before that buying an EV is not only within reach thanks to government incentives but also makes financial sense for them.

“The further you are from the city centre, the more reliant you are on your car.

“This policy is doing what it was designed to do: help more everyday Australians consider and make their next car electric.

“Customers are telling our members that the savings from the electric car discount are pivotal in getting them to make the switch.”