Are you ready to make your business EV ready or transition to an EV fleet? Our resources, tools, and real-world stories of success can help you learn more about the process and guide you through the journey.
Watch the video to see how three very different NSW businesses are proving that electric fleets can work in the real world. Find out more about what has worked for other businesses.
I'm new. Where do I start?
It has never been easier than it is today to own and drive an electric vehicle (EV) in Australia. Greater choice in the market, coupled with legislation and incentives across Australia, mean that businesses transitioning their fleets to EVs will see even greater benefits and savings.
The range of benefits for businesses who switch to EVs includes:
- lower running costs
- reduce your emissions and help your community
- improved fuel security
- balanced energy supply
When organisations electrify their fleets, they can also have a powerful impact on the national market, spurring demand for, and increasing supply of EVs, both new and used.
Commercial fleets account for over half of new vehicle sales in Australia, and are a significant source of second-hand vehicles. They often drive more kilometres and have higher expenses for fuel and maintenance.
While EVs can be more expensive to purchase than their equivalent petrol and diesel vehicles, they are cheaper to run. If you look at the total cost of ownership, EVs can be a more cost-effective option. Use our calculator to see how much you could save.
Total cost of ownership calculator
Safety
Electric cars have similar safety ratings to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. Almost all of the electric cars scored by the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) in the last five years have received 4 or 5 stars (best rating is 5 stars). There are also practical reasons EVs are considered safer:
- The battery sits low in the car. This improves car handling and makes it harder for the car to roll over.
- Less components allow for more flexibility with the vehicle design. EVs are able to have more crumple space to help absorb impact in a crash and protect the people inside.
- EVs also have the latest safety features like lane assist and sensors to help drivers. Some safety features can be added after the sale via over the air (OTA) updates.
Environmental impact
EVs are better for the environment than petrol or diesel vehicles. They produce fewer greenhouse gases and less air pollution, even when charged from today’s electricity grid.
Most of an EV’s lifetime emissions are created during the manufacturing of the battery. Manufacturers can reduce these emissions by using renewable energy. Batteries can also have a second life as energy storage for homes and businesses, which helps reduce waste.
How much will it cost?
As the EV market grows, competitive tension continues to lower the upfront cost of EVs. There are now models available for less than $40,000. If you look at the total cost of ownership, EVs can be a more cost-effective option, which delivers strong long-term savings.
Typically, both electricity and maintenance costs are lower. When you are comparing costs, remember to:
- compare like-for-like models (with similar safety and technology features)
- research financing options (e.g. environmentally-focused loans)
- factor in fuel savings
- budget for reduced servicing costs
- consider government incentives.
You can also use the Vehicle Emissions Star Rating website to compare tailpipe emissions and estimated running costs for different vehicles to help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
Servicing an EV
EVs can save up to 90% of the maintenance and operational costs you would normally spend on an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle.
Battery electric vehicles have fewer parts to maintain than ICE cars, with only three main components:
- electric motor
- on-board charger
- the inverter.
EVs also have regenerative braking, so brake systems typically last longer than on conventional vehicles.
Manufacturers still recommend a 24 month and 48 month inspection service checkup. They usually inspect the cabling of the vehicle (i.e. charging cable) and depending on the type of EV (BEV or PHEV) maintain liquids such as coolant, brake fluid and windscreen washing liquid.
Replacing batteries
In most cases EVs will not need to replace batteries. Manufacturers continue to extend the warranty because the batteries have proven to be more reliable than originally expected. Most EV batteries now offer a 10-year warranty or up to 240,000km.
Battery quality has improved from early generation EVs to recently released EVs. For example, current experiences in electric vehicles show that EV batteries degrade only around 8-10% after driving 260,000km.
In the unlikely event a battery would need replacing soon after purchase and was out of warranty, the replacement cost would depend on your EV model. If current trends continue for battery prices, by the time a battery reaches the end of its predicted lifespan, replacement batteries will be much cheaper than today’s prices.
Selling your EV
As a new market, EV resale values are only starting to become established. As people and businesses become accustomed to the lower operating and servicing costs, current EVs are not expected to have the same depreciation levels of early EVs. As of November 2025, NSW has reached the milestone of 100,000 electric vehicles on our roads, signalling strong consumer demand.
What charging strategy will work best for my fleet?
Most business sites can support some level of EV charging, but the right setup depends on your vehicles, power supply and how your fleet operates day-to-day. There are many options available, with different levels of power and charging speeds.
Use the resources below to learn the basics of AC and DC charging, charging needs, and understand how to make your commercial building EV ready.
Speak with a qualified installer to further understand what upgrades you may need and the best next steps for your site.
You can also make use of the public charging network, spread across NSW from the coast to Broken Hill.
What's worked for other businesses?
Be inspired by NSW organisations taking action to save energy, reduce their emissions, and be more sustainable.
New EV brands webinar
Explore the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles and take a closer look at these new products on offer and how they might be suitable for your fleet. This webinar covers:
- market trends and the changing automotive landscape
- overview of emerging EV brands
- their warranty and servicing structures
- their challenges or considerations when evaluating these brands.
What funding support is available?
We’re working to support NSW businesses shift to electric vehicles and make NSW the easiest place to buy and use an EV in Australia.
Here are some of the ways we can support your business.
We are investing $105 million in the EV fleets incentive, helping NSW businesses accelerate their shift to EVs and reduce emissions.
Businesses, commercial property owners and managers, as well as site operators and owners across NSW will have the chance to be part of the world-class charging network.
Help build a world-class electric vehicle (EV) charging network and benefit from increased visibility, foot traffic, and sustainability leadership.
Stay up to date
If you wish to receive updates on EVs and other NSW Government initiatives, fill in your details below.
Contact us for support
If you have any questions please contact us at [email protected]