Updated on July 2025
The CEO of Beyond Zero Emissions (BZE) said Australians would do well to consider switching to cheap electric vehicles within the next decade, which has come true.
Vanessa Petrie said in a Daily Telegraph report that there are many good reasons to make the switch. These are also detailed in BZE’s 98-page ‘Electric Vehicles Report’ released in August 2017.
While electric vehicles cost more to buy than regular cars, they also cost less to run. This is consistent with information from the Electric Vehicle Council that the cost of running a fuel-powered vehicle is almost four times that of an electric one.
Electric vehicles are also cheaper to maintain, due to having fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines. The cost of electric vehicle batteries is also falling. According to the report, prices are 75 per cent lower than they were in 2010. And this price drop is expected to continue.
If you plan to purchase an EV, integrating an EV charger into your solar system is a great way to “fuel” your car with clean, renewable energy.
Reduced emissions & pollution with cheap electric vehicles
Vehicles contribute to greenhouse gas emissions in Australia, which could be eliminated by switching to all-electric cars. The reduction in emissions could be as significant if regional passenger vehicles are included in the switch.
Lower emissions would give us numerous other benefits too. These include cleaner and healthier air, fewer deaths from emissions, reduced noise pollution and less reliance on imported fuels.
Recharging is getting easier and faster
Most car trips in Australia are under 120 km, which is within the range of contemporary electric cars.
Owners of solar panels and energy storage batteries can save even more by powering up their electric vehicles from their solar power systems.
More EV charging stations are also being built, including Queensland’s Electric Super Highway, launched in 2017.
Renewable energy growth in Australia means we could easily generate the extra energy supplies needed for electric cars.
While electric vehicles may cost more to buy right now, the overall findings of the report are that this will be offset by the considerable savings and benefits that electric vehicles offer over time.
What to consider when buying an affordable EV in Australia
When choosing among affordable electric cars in Australia, it’s essential to weigh performance, practicality, and long-term value. Entry-level electric vehicles in Australia may come with fewer premium features, but they still deliver excellent benefits in urban and suburban driving conditions. Consider the following before making your decision:
- Battery range and charging infrastructure: Check the EV’s range on a single charge and assess whether public or home electric charging options suit your lifestyle.
- Government incentives and rebates: Many states offer EV incentives, rebates and financial support to make cheap electric cars in Australia more accessible.
- Warranty and servicing costs: Consider the long-term support offered by the manufacturer, particularly for entry-level electric vehicles in Australia, which may have simplified maintenance requirements.
Are cheap electric cars in Australia worth it? A total cost of ownership breakdown
Yes, cheap electric cars in Australia can be worth it—especially when considering the total cost of ownership over several years. While upfront prices for entry-level electric vehicles in Australia are falling, the long-term savings often make them more economical than traditional petrol models.
Here’s a breakdown to consider:
- Lower running costs: EVs typically cost less per kilometre to operate than petrol or diesel vehicles due to cheaper electricity and fewer moving parts.
- Government incentives: Rebates, registration discounts, and stamp duty exemptions further lower the cost of affordable electric cars in Australia.
- Minimal maintenance: With no oil changes and fewer mechanical issues, servicing expenses for the cheapest electric cars in Australia remain low.
Over five to ten years, many owners find that cheap electric cars in Australia not only reduce emissions but also save thousands in operating and maintenance costs—making them a smart and sustainable investment.
How Energy Matters can help you get started
The shift to affordable electric vehicles in Australia is not merely feasible; it’s already underway. With increasing choices in the entry-level electric vehicle market in Australia, coupled with supportive government policies and an expanding charging network, the path to a cleaner, more sustainable, and cost-effective transport future is clear.
Ready to join the electric revolution? Explore your options for affordable electric cars today! Visit Energy Matters to discover how you can power your home and your EV with renewable energy and take control of your energy future. Take action now and drive towards a sustainable tomorrow with Energy Matters!
