September 17th, 2024
Imports of fully electric vehicles in New Zealand have more than doubled in value during the 12 months to March 2023, with a series high for vehicle imports, according to data released by Stats NZ on Tuesday.
The total value of passenger motor vehicles imported in the 12 months to March 2023 reached $6.8 billion, representing an increase of 13% on the previous year and marking the largest value of vehicles purchased within any 12 months to March.
The data reveals a clear trend towards reduced-emission propulsion methods across all vehicle types, with electric vehicle (EV) imports experiencing the highest increase of 127%, reaching a value of $1.23 billion. Meanwhile, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and the less common plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) increased 79% (to $1.12 billion) and 123% (to $176 million), respectively.
The combination of all passenger internal combustion vehicles experienced a more modest increase of 1.7%, amounting to $5.6 billion.
"While traditional internal combustion vehicles are still the most popular choice overall, we are seeing a clear shift towards electric power among New Zealanders when selecting their next passenger car," said international trade manager Al Allen.
Since mid-2020, imports of reduced-emission passenger vehicles (HEVs, PHEVs, and fully electric, combined) have grown from a share of 8.2% to 37% of the value of passenger vehicles imported in the 12 months to March 2023. Similarly, the number of these reduced-emission vehicles imported increased from a share of 7.3% to 37%.
Electric vehicle numbers also surged, rising from 2.6% to 11% of passenger vehicle imports during the same time period. China leads electric vehicle imports to New Zealand with a 58% share of imports or $716 million. South Korea follows at 16%, with $195 million, the European Union at 13% with $161 million, and Japan at 8.4% with $104 million.
