Hybrid sales have stalled for the first time in a year, as EVs enjoy a bounce and plug-ins continue in their popularity.
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries latest figures for July show hybrids declined slightly (1.6 per cent) month on month after a record surge in 2024 but still remained 11.9 per cent up on 2024.
They still make up one of every seven new vehicles sold.
EVs up
EVs on the other hand, that have remained stagnant so far in 2025, enjoyed a monthly growth of 50 per cent over July 2024 but were still 30 percent down on sales for the total year s0 far.
These FCAI figures do not include Tesla, including its most popular model the relaunched Y that has sold 917 vehicles in July according to the Electric Vehicle Council.
The overall result showed strong demand in July 2025 – up 3.6 per cent on 2024 witg big cars making up seven of the top ten vehicles including four utes.
The RAV4 was back in second place but Toyota’s HiLux took the top spot pushing the Ford Ranger into third.
Mazda has also jumped over Ford as second most popular car maker (falling to fourth), behind the unassailable Toyota who have held the spot for 21 years.
Confidence
Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries chief executive Tony Weber says the results show a robust market.
“We are now seeing confidence return to the market, supported by a recent interest rate reduction and anticipation of further easing,” Mr Weber says.
“Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are experiencing a period of rapid growth, with sales up 183 per cent year to date.
“With more than 50 models available in 2025, plug-in hybrids have emerged as an important transition technology for many Australians, particularly those in regional areas or those with limited access to charging,” Mr Weber said.
“They offer the ability to drive short distances on electric power while retaining the flexibility and range of a conventional engine.”
Despite the wide range of EV choice, sales have stalled, remaining below 8 per cent of new vehicle sales in 2025, he says.
Toyota was the market leader with sales of 21,722 during July, followed by Mazda (7,452), Kia (7,402), Ford (7,279) and Hyundai (6,687).