Australia’s used electric vehicle (EV) market experienced a significant surge in September 2026, with sales jumping by 29.8% compared to the previous month. This substantial growth, detailed in new data from the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA) and AutoGrab, directly challenges long-standing perceptions about rapid EV depreciation and signals a maturing market where electric models are increasingly holding their value.
The latest figures show 5,417 used EVs were sold nationally in September, up from 4,173 in August and 3,496 in July. This consistent upward trend saw EVs account for 2.1% of all used vehicle sales in September, an increase from 1.5% in July. This robust performance in the secondhand market provides compelling evidence that consumer confidence in EV longevity and resale value is growing, particularly as escalating petrol prices continue to impact household budgets.
Brendon Green, general manager of automotive solutions at auction house Pickles, highlighted this shift, noting that even written-off EVs are commanding surprising prices. This indicates a strong underlying demand for EV components and batteries, further bolstering their value proposition.
“Written-off EVs sold for spare parts and second-life batteries achieved 16% higher sale results than petrol equivalents, while repairable write-offs generated a huge 71% price premium.”
This data suggests that the fear of rapid depreciation, a common concern among prospective EV buyers, is being actively debunked by real-world market performance. The strong demand for repairable write-offs, fetching a 71% premium over comparable combustion models, underscores the value of EV platforms and their components, even after significant damage.
The Shifting Landscape of Vehicle Ownership
The growth in the used EV market comes as new EV sales also continue their impressive trajectory. For context, new battery-electric vehicles accounted for 24.2% of Australia’s new-car market in September, outselling petrol and diesel vehicles for the second consecutive month. This dual-market expansion indicates a broader societal shift towards electrification, driven by both environmental awareness and increasingly, economic imperatives.
High fuel prices are a significant factor pushing consumers towards electric alternatives. As the cost of running an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle rises, the lower running costs of an EV become increasingly attractive. Charging an EV at home, especially with rooftop solar, can drastically reduce annual fuel expenditure, making the overall cost of ownership more appealing. For homeowners looking to maximise these savings, understanding options like Electrify Your Home in 2026: Real Costs, Rebates & Savings Up to $15,000+ can provide valuable insights.
Market Dynamics and Future Outlook
The increased availability of diverse EV models in the Australian market is also contributing to the strength of the used segment. As more new EVs enter the market, a wider selection becomes available secondhand, catering to different budgets and preferences. This growing variety, combined with improved battery technology and increasing public charging infrastructure, makes EVs a more viable option for a broader demographic of Australian drivers. While charging infrastructure is still playing catch-up, the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) recently announced a $1.43 million project to develop a national EV charging roadmap, aiming to address these gaps by mid-2027.
| Metric | July 2026 | August 2026 | September 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used EV Sales (Units) | 3,496 | 4,173 | 5,417 |
| MoM Growth | - | +19.4% | +29.8% |
| % of Used Market | 1.5% | - | 2.1% |
The data shows that used EV sales grew consistently over the third quarter of 2026, with September marking the strongest monthly increase. This trend is expected to continue as more affordable EV models become available and the long-term benefits of EV ownership, including reduced maintenance and fuel costs, become more widely recognised. For those considering an EV, understanding the differences between AC vs DC EV Charging in Australia 2026: The Definitive Guide to Home & Public Options is crucial for optimising their charging experience.
Furthermore, the potential for bidirectional charging (Vehicle-to-Home or V2H) is set to add another layer of value to EV ownership, allowing vehicles to act as mobile power banks and potentially earn income by feeding energy back to the grid. Drivers interested in leveraging their EV as a home energy asset can explore options in Bidirectional EV Charging in Australia 2026: Unlock $2,500+ Annual Savings & Compatible Models.
The resilience of used EV values is a critical factor in mainstream adoption. As the market matures and more data becomes available, the financial benefits of owning an electric vehicle are becoming increasingly clear, extending beyond initial purchase incentives to include strong resale value and significant operational savings.