As predicted early in 2023, more new cars have been delivered in Australia during 2023 than in any previous year despite order pipelines for fleet vehicles continuing to grow.
A total of 1,216,780 vehicles were delivered during the year, the previous highest sales result of 1,189,116 was achieved in 2017.
Fleet buyers purchased 48% (586,483) of all new vehicles in 2023 which was an increase of 17% over 2022. There were increases in all segments with Government sales increasing 24%, Rental 11% and Business 19%.
Heavy commercial vehicle manufacturers had another stellar year after breaking a record in 2022, sales were up 9% in 2023 to 51,772 which is another new record.
Toyota was the top selling car brand with 17.7 per cent of the market while the top selling vehicle was the Ford Ranger (63,356). SUVs and light commercials accounted for 78.4 per cent of sales and comprise all the top 10 vehicles sold in 2023.
The top 5 selling models in 2023 were:
- Ford Ranger
- Toyota Hilux
- Isuzu UTE D-MAX
- Toyota RAV4
- MG ZS
The Tesla Model Y was in sixth place on the top selling model list, and Tesla made it into to the top 10 list of manufacturers with only two vehicles on sale and no dealerships.
Battery electric vehicles accounted for 7.2 per cent of sales with combined battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles achieving 196,868 sales or 16.2 per cent of new vehicle sales.
FCAI Chief Executive, Tony Weber, said this record-breaking achievement underscores the dynamic and competitive nature of Australia’s automotive landscape, providing consumers with an extensive array of choices across various price brackets.
“This extraordinary result is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of both industry players and consumers alike. Despite the supply chain disruptions faced in recent times, consumers now have greater access to a broad range of choices, fostering increased accessibility in the market,” said Mr. Weber.
As we look ahead to 2024, the FCAI is optimistic that the Federal Government will act and introduce a Fuel Efficiency Standard that achieves the policy outcomes that lead to emission reductions while enabling Australians to drive the vehicles that they need and want. Availability and affordability of products across all market segments will be the key to a successful Fuel Efficiency Standard.
“For more than a decade, the FCAI has been encouraging Governments to introduce a Fuel Efficiency Standard. Now we have the process underway it’s critical that the Federal government takes time the to get it right. That is essential for environmental outcomes and for consumers.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Weber expressed optimism about the industry’s future in 2024 while acknowledging potential challenges.
“This is a tremendously exciting time for the industry. Consumers have a wide choice of vehicles available to meet their work, recreation and family needs that come equipped with the latest advancements in engine technology, safety features and advanced driving, navigation and entertainment aids.
“As we celebrate this historic achievement, we recognise that the automotive sector will face challenges in the coming months. Cost-of-living pressures and increased interest rates will impact the market, and we anticipate a challenging 2024.
“The FCAI will continue its work with governments and other industry stakeholders during 2024 to manage a broad range of issues ranging from emissions standards, environmental impacts, logistics and supply chains, taxation, vehicle safety, data use and recharging infrastructure,” Mr Weber said.
