Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD has climbed to become Australia’s second-largest car brand, overtaking long-established rivals including Ford, Mazda and Hyundai.

The company has sold more than 60,000 vehicles so far this year, increasing its market share to 8.5 per cent, up sharply from 3.9 per cent a year ago.

Much of the growth has been driven by the popular Sealion 7 electric SUV, which has recorded more than 15,000 sales in 2026.

The latest figures also show Australians are increasingly choosing electric vehicles, with EVs accounting for 21 per cent of all new car sales in July.

Industry experts say rising fuel costs, improved technology and a wider range of affordable EV models are accelerating the shift away from traditional petrol vehicles.

However, automotive leaders have warned that Australia must rapidly expand its public EV charging infrastructure to keep pace with the country’s growing electric vehicle demand.