As fuel prices face renewed pressure following the end of the Federal Government’s fuel excise discount, new data reveals Australians are increasingly turning their attention towards affordable electric vehicles as they search for their next car.

Research from RACV Car Match shows electric vehicles from Chinese manufacturers BYD and MG claimed all five top positions among the most searched vehicles on the platform over the past five months, highlighting the rapid rise of affordable EV brands in Australia’s new-car market.

The BYD Atto 1 ranked as the most searched vehicle, with prices starting at just under $28,000 drive away according to Car Match data.

The popularity of lower-cost EV models was followed by the BYD Atto 2 ($36,244 drive away), BYD Sealion 7 mid-sized SUV ($60,210 drive away), BYD Dolphin ($31,611 drive away), and MG4 ($30,777 drive away), which rounded out the top five.

The latest figures follow RACV data released earlier this year showing searches for electric vehicles increased by 461 per cent in March compared to February, coinciding with China overtaking Japan as Australia’s largest source of new vehicle imports.

RACV Car Match was launched in 2025 to help Australians make more informed vehicle purchasing decisions by allowing users to research, compare and evaluate vehicles through a single platform.

RACV Head of Policy James Williams says the search data reflected a significant change in consumer priorities as households looked for ways to manage rising motoring costs.

“Cost of living and a desire to find cheaper ways to stay on the road is top of mind for Australians, and we’re seeing how that is changing our local car market and consumer preferences,” Mr Williams said.

“Manufacturers such as BYD and MG have become major players in the Australian market as motorists increasingly prioritise value for money, technology and safety features with ongoing pressure at the bowser pushing more everyday Victorians to electric.” he said.

The shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles is also being reflected in broader industry figures.

Data released from the AAA’s EV Index on Sunday revealed sales of electric and hybrid vehicles doubled in the three months to June 30, delivering Australia’s largest ever quarterly rise in EV sales.

However, Williams urged motorists to consider more than the upfront purchase price when choosing an electric vehicle.

“Before purchasing an EV, we encourage motorists to look beyond the cost and ensure their vehicle is a long-term lifestyle match.” said Williams

“Consider how and where your EV will charge, differences in driving style and driving range, and safety features.”

“RACV Car Match provides a great starting point for consumers, letting buyers compare price, specification, safety ratings and estimated running costs in one place before they commit.” he said.

The latest RACV data highlights how cost pressures, changing consumer preferences and increased availability of affordable models are accelerating Australia’s transition towards electric vehicles.