Electric cars have become a sustainable choice not just for those on higher incomes.

A survey by novated leasing provider Maxxia of more than 1200 workers reveals that middle-income earners ($40,000-$79,000) are seeing real financial relief, reshaping the conversation around affordability.

Maxxia partners with the PSA CPSU NSW, offering novated leasing packages for members.

“For years, electric vehicles were seen as something only the wealthy could afford. But we’re seeing a real shift in who’s buying them, and why,” said Maxxia Chief Executive Antonia Albanese. “It’s people who aren’t chasing status or making an environmental statement, but who simply want to make their budgets go further.”

Sixty per cent of electric vehicle drivers surveyed reported lower transport costs after switching from petrol or diesel. These numbers are supported by the Electric Vehicle Council’s second EV Ownership Survey, which revealed that more than 70 per cent of drivers reported fuel savings of more than 60 per cent compared with their previous petrol car, while 73 per cent spent less than $300 a year on maintenance.

Electric vehicle drivers also report feeling less affected by broader cost-of-living pressures, thanks to predictable monthly expenses and freedom from fuel-price volatility.

Then there’s the Federal Government’s Electric Car Discount, which is available through novated leasing and has helped reduce car costs through the exemption of Fringe Benefits Tax on eligible vehicles of up to $91,661.

Long favoured for its tax-saving potential, novated leasing becomes even more attractive with electric vehicles, helping many drivers make payments entirely from before-tax income.

The discount has accelerated EV adoption, growing the number of models available in Australia from 56 to more than 160. According to the Electric Vehicle Council this has lifted new-car sales from 6 per cent to more than 24 per cent between December 2022 and August 2026.

“If you’re interested in an electric vehicle via novated lease, call the Maxxia team on 1300 123 123,” said Ms Albanese.