Buying an EV | Is now the right time to buy an electric car? - NAB
Why are electric cars becoming more popular?
Predictable running costs
EVs help make day‑to‑day running costs predictable, because you’re charging a battery instead of filling up. No more petrol price swings.
More choice
With more EV models arriving in Australia each year, it’s getting easier to find one that fits your lifestyle, needs and budget.
More charging options
Australia’s charging network is continually expanding, with more public chargers and home‑charging options.
Cheaper finance
Discounted finance options can help reduce the cost of switching to an EV. With a NAB Car Loan for an EV, you can enjoy a 0.75% rate discount.
When is an EV a good fit for you?
Good fit if you:
Consider carefully if you:
Electric car versus petrol or diesel car
Both electric vehicles and ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) cars have pros and cons. Look under the hood and consider which benefits are most important to you.
Benefits of EVs
Home charging
Plugging in at home means no trips to the servo and no waiting in line. For many drivers, overnight home charging covers daily driving needs, making an EV more convenient than refuelling a petrol car.
Cheaper to run
An EV typically costs less per kilometre to charge than buying petrol or diesel, especially if you charge at home or during off-peak electricity times. These smaller, more predictable costs can add up to meaningful savings over time.
Lower maintenance
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts – no oil changes, spark plugs or exhaust systems. That can mean less regular servicing, fewer mechanical issues and lower maintenance costs over the life of the car.
Cleaner to drive
EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, which helps reduce pollution where you live and drive. That means quieter streets and better air quality, particularly in busy cities and suburban areas.
Modern technology
EVs often come with the latest technology, including advanced safety features, digital displays and smart software updates. You can also enjoy instant acceleration and a smoother, quieter driving experience.
Government incentives
Depending on where you live, there may be government support or incentives available for EV buyers. These incentives can reduce the upfront or ongoing cost of owning an electric vehicle.
Benefits of petrol and diesel cars
Lower upfront price
Petrol and diesel cars can still be cheaper to buy upfront, particularly in the used car market where they have a longer track record. The market for second hand petrol and diesel cars also tends to be bigger than the second hand EV market.
Cheaper insurance
Insurance premiums for ICE (internal combustion engine) cars may be lower for some drivers, depending on the model, repair costs and insurer. This can reduce ongoing insurance costs, especially for older or more common vehicles.
Fast refuelling
You can quickly refuel your car at petrol stations across Australia. This can be especially appealing for frequent long‑distance travel or regional driving where electric chargers are harder to find.
Long driving range
ICE cars can generally travel longer distances than EVs without needing to re-fuel as often, making them well‑suited to road trips or driving in remote areas.
Resale value
The resale market for petrol and diesel cars is well‑established, so resale prices can be easier to estimate, particularly for popular models.
How to finance an EV
Option 1
NAB Car Loan
Get a 0.75% rate discount available for eligible all-electric and plug-in hybrid cars with rates from 5.99% p.a. to 12.79% p.a (comparison rate from 7.06% p.a. to 13.76% p.a.)
- Own your car
- No exit fees if you pay off your loan sooner
- No balloon (lump sum) payment required at the end of your loan
- Get a rate quote without impacting your credit score
- Shop with confidence knowing how much you could borrow with a conditional approval
Option 2
Dealership finance
Finance from the dealership where you buy your car.
- Usually organised at the dealership
- Finance may be arranged through a third party lender or the dealer’s own finance division
- Rates, fees and terms vary between dealers and promotions
- There may be balloon (lump sum) payments at the end of loan term, dealer commission, add-ons costs and additional fees and charges
- Limited information before you arrive at the dealership
Option 3
Leasing (including novated leases)
Leasing a car from a financier, rather than buying it yourself.
- Lease the car rather than owning it
- Lease payments may include running costs and insurance
- Novated leases often used in salary packaging arrangements
- Ask about any restrictions such how many kilometres you can drive and rates and fees
- Residual or agreed (lump-sum) value payments are common at the end of the lease
Frequently asked questions about EVs
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It can be, depending on how you drive and charge. Many EV owners see lower running and maintenance costs, while upfront prices and finance options can vary by model and situation.
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Charging an EV at home is often cheaper per kilometre than fuel. Costs depend on electricity prices, charging habits and driving patterns.
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Charging access is improving across cities and highways, though longer or regional trips may still require some planning.
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EVs are a good choice for daily driving. Road trips are possible too but may take more planning and charging stops than petrol cars, especially in remote areas.
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Incentives may be available, depending on where you live and how you buy your vehicle. Eligibility varies by state or territory and can change over time, so it’s worth checking current government programs before deciding.
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If you’re comparing electric vehicles, the Australian Government’s Green Vehicle Guide is a great place to start. It allows you to search and compare EV models available in Australia, view key features like driving range and energy efficiency, and see how different vehicles perform on environmental measures.
You can also use the guide to explore popular models, compare EVs with ICE cars, and narrow down options based on price, size and vehicle type – helping you make a more informed decision about what’s right for you.
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