Is your dealership ready to sell electric cars?
Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to grow in popularity across Australia and globally as consumers seek lower running costs, reduced environmental impact, and access to the latest technology. While EVs once held niche appeal, 2025 marks a new reality—EVs are mainstream.
If your dealership isn’t ready to meet the surge in electric vehicle demand, now is the time to act. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), EV sales surpassed 17 million globally in 2024 and are on track to exceed 20 million in 2025. In China, EVs already account for over half of all new passenger vehicles sold, and Australia is seeing rapid year-on-year growth in both new EV sales and consumer interest.
Selling electric vehicles doesn’t just involve having them on the lot. It demands a strategic shift in how your dealership operates. This guide will explore what it takes to succeed in the EV era—including infrastructure, team readiness, marketing, and the data that proves EVs are the future of car sales.
Why electric vehicles are reshaping the dealership landscape
The shift toward EVs is no longer speculative—it’s happening now. EVs are expected to account for over one in five new car sales globally by the end of 2025. Driven by government policy, increasing model availability, and consumer demand for greener transport, electric vehicles are poised to dominate future automotive sales.
This transition means that dealerships that delay adaptation risk losing out on valuable market share and revenue. On the other hand, those who prepare now are better positioned to attract a growing segment of well-informed, eco-conscious buyers.
What your dealership needs to sell electric cars successfully
Charging Infrastructure
Charging capability is the number one infrastructure requirement for any dealership planning to stock and service electric vehicles. Without on-site charging stations, you won’t just miss out on EV service revenue—you risk appearing out of touch.
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Install AC and DC chargers: AC chargers are sufficient for overnight or slow charges, but DC fast chargers allow you to charge vehicles in minutes, which is more convenient for demos and service customers.
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Offer customer-facing charging: Public-facing chargers can bring EV drivers onto your lot—even if they didn’t intend to visit—and create cross-sell opportunities.
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Support various connector types: To support a growing number of EV models, equip your charging stations with universal or multi-standard connectors.
Team Training and Education
Selling and servicing EVs requires a different skillset than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Your team must be fluent in EV features and comfortable explaining key concepts to customers.
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Understand EV range, charging, and energy consumption: Customers will have questions about how far they can drive, how long charging takes, and how EVs compare in terms of performance and cost.
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Update service protocols: EVs require less frequent servicing, but when they do, specialised knowledge is needed to handle high-voltage systems and battery diagnostics.
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Train across departments: Everyone from sales and F&I to service writers should understand EVs. A well-informed team builds customer confidence and closes more deals.
Evolving Your Sales Strategy
EV buyers are different. They’re often more tech-savvy, research-driven, and environmentally conscious than traditional buyers. Your sales process should reflect that.
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Offer virtual walkarounds and online consultations: EV buyers expect digital convenience. A video call with a knowledgeable rep can convert a website visitor into a lead.
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Show cost-of-ownership comparisons: Highlight savings on fuel and maintenance, using real figures. Many buyers don’t realise just how affordable EVs are over time.
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Emphasise warranty and battery health: Concerns about battery lifespan can delay a purchase. Offer clear information about battery warranties, degradation, and health checks.
Marketing for the EV buyer
Your marketing should speak to the motivations of EV buyers—saving money, reducing emissions, and embracing the future.
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Highlight environmental benefits: EVs offer zero tailpipe emissions and lower lifecycle carbon footprints, especially when charged using renewable energy.
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Showcase innovation: Position your dealership as a leader, not a follower. Promote your charging infrastructure, EV inventory, and team expertise.
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Educate through content: Publish blog posts, videos, and FAQs to help buyers navigate their first EV purchase. The more helpful you are, the more trustworthy your dealership appears.
Global and Australian EV stats for 2025
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Worldwide sales: EV sales are forecasted to exceed 20 million vehicles globally in 2025, up from 17 million in 2024. This represents more than 25% year-on-year growth.
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China: The world’s largest EV market, with over 50% of new vehicles sold being electric.
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Europe: EVs now make up one in four new car sales across the continent.
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Australia: New EV sales accounted for 9.5% of all new cars in the first half of 2025, up from just 7.2% in 2024. This growth is expected to continue as more models enter the market and charging infrastructure improves.
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Battery prices: The cost of lithium-ion batteries has dropped by over 20% since 2022, making EVs more affordable than ever.
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Consumer sentiment: Surveys show that over 50% of Australians would consider an EV for their next vehicle purchase.
Future-proof your dealership with the right strategy
Success in the EV market won’t come from passive observation—it requires proactive planning, investment, and leadership. Dealerships that prepare for EV sales today will reap the benefits tomorrow through increased sales, customer loyalty, and stronger positioning in a competitive market.
SalesLogs can help your dealership track EV performance, train your team using real-time sales data, and streamline operations as you expand your EV inventory.
