- Affordable electric SUVs now begin well below the fuel-efficient luxury car tax threshold.
- Kia, MG and BYD offer published WLTP range above 480 km on selected variants, while test cycles and real-world results differ.
- Price, delivery timing, insurance, charging and tyre costs all belong in a novated lease comparison.
- Current EV FBT treatment remains highly relevant, but the scheduled rules change from 1 April 2027 and again from 1 April 2029.
A much broader EV market than a few years ago
Australian buyers are no longer choosing between only a small group of premium electric cars. Established names such as Tesla, Kia, Volvo, Polestar, Hyundai and BYD now sit alongside newer entrants including JAECOO, Geely, Leapmotor and XPENG. Competition has created electric SUVs at lower drive-away prices, more long-range choices and faster charging platforms.
That is useful for a novated lease because the vehicle price drives the finance repayment, residual value, insurance budget and—in many cases—eligibility for electric vehicle tax concessions. The cheapest advertised car will not always produce the best total package, but more competition gives employees better options to compare.
Notable 2026 electric cars and SUVs
| Model | Why it is relevant | Published range guide |
|---|---|---|
| JAECOO J5 EV | A lower-priced compact electric SUV with a published drive-away starting point around the high-$30,000s. | About 402 km WLTP |
| Geely EX5 | A spacious value-focused electric SUV with two grades and a competitive equipment list. | Up to 475 km WLTP, variant-dependent |
| MG S5 EV | Rear-wheel-drive family SUV with 49 kWh and 62 kWh battery choices. | Up to 450 km on the 62 kWh grade |
| Leapmotor B10 | Newer small electric SUV with strong equipment and battery choices. | Up to 516 km NEDC on Design LR |
| BYD SEALION 7 | Premium or Performance grades, large cabin and strong power outputs. | 482 km WLTP Premium; 456 km Performance |
| Kia EV5 | Family-focused mid-size SUV with standard, long-range and AWD choices. | 400–555 km WLTP depending grade |
| MG S6 EV | A larger family SUV with a 77 kWh battery and strong published range. | Up to 530 km WLTP |
| XPENG G6 | A coupe-style SUV using an 800-volt platform and high-rate charging technology. | Check the selected Australian grade |
| Tesla Model Y | The established mid-size EV benchmark with broad charging-network access and updated warranty terms for 2026 deliveries. | Variant-dependent |
Do not compare an NEDC figure directly with a WLTP figure. NEDC is usually more optimistic. Real range also changes with speed, temperature, hills, load, tyres, wind and climate-control use.
Affordable compact and small electric SUVs
The JAECOO J5 EV, Geely EX5, MG S5 EV and Leapmotor B10 show how quickly the lower end of the electric SUV market is developing. An employee considering one of these vehicles should compare the actual drive-away invoice, standard safety equipment, warranty terms, local servicing access and comprehensive insurance—not only the advertised starting price.
For regional drivers, service support and distance to the selling dealer can matter almost as much as charging. A lower purchase price may be less attractive if insurance, tyres or travel for servicing are materially higher.
Family and long-range choices
The Kia EV5 Long Range publishes up to 555 km WLTP in Air form, while the MG S6 EV publishes up to 530 km WLTP. BYD's SEAL sedan remains relevant for drivers prioritising range and performance, and the SEALION 7 provides an SUV alternative. These official figures are useful for comparing vehicles, but a motorway-heavy commute can produce a different result from the laboratory test cycle.
For a family vehicle, also compare second-row comfort, boot shape, child-seat access, towing capacity, spare-wheel arrangements and how much range remains when the car is fully loaded.
Fast charging is only part of the story
Newer platforms increasingly promote high peak DC charging rates. The XPENG G6, for example, highlights its 800-volt architecture and very fast charge capability. Peak speed matters on long trips, but the complete charging curve, battery temperature, charger capability and state of charge determine how long a real stop takes.
Home charging is usually the more important question for daily use. Before choosing an EV, confirm where the car will park, whether a dedicated circuit or wallbox is practical, the applicable electricity tariff and how charging expenses will be handled by the salary-packaging provider.
What this means for a novated lease
Eligible battery EVs can still receive favourable fringe benefits tax treatment, but vehicle value and commencement timing are increasingly important. The Government's updated timetable keeps the current full discount through 31 March 2027, then introduces a $75,000 dividing line for new arrangements from 1 April 2027 before broader changes from 1 April 2029.
That does not automatically make every EV lease good value. Compare the EV package against buying the same car with cash or a loan, and against a realistic petrol, diesel or hybrid alternative. Include the residual, fees and likely kilometres over the whole term.
Important: Prices, specifications, offers and availability change frequently. Range figures are manufacturer test-cycle claims, not guaranteed real-world results. Confirm current information before ordering.