Chinese cars seize 40% of Australian market, ending Japan's 28-year reign

Chinese-made vehicles captured 40.4 per cent of Australia's new car market in August, overthrowing Japan after 28 years as the nation's top vehicle supplier.

Why it mattersThe speed of this market shift means Australians are voting with their wallets for fuel-efficient cars over Japanese brands that have dominated for nearly three decades.

AustraliaAustralians are now buying Chinese vehicles in record numbers, which could reshape local car dealer networks, servicing options and what models arrive in Australia first.

✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 35 min ago

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White and red electric vehicles charging at a modern station with infrastructure visible

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Electric cars outsell all other powertrains for the first time in Australia

Electric vehicles captured 24.9 per cent of Australia's new car market in August 2026, outselling every other powertrain type for the first time.

Why it mattersThe shift shows Australia's vehicle market is changing fast, with electric cars becoming mainstream rather than niche, affecting what new cars buyers see on forecourts.