SYDNEY, September 19 (Xinhua Finance) — The 2026 Australian Electric Mobility Expo Sydney edition took place from September 18 to 20, showcasing cutting-edge electrified vehicles, with several Chinese new-energy automakers bringing their latest models to the show. Multiple industry observers noted that as Australia's EV market continues its upward trajectory, Chinese manufacturers stand well positioned to deepen their local presence through technological innovation and localized operations.
SYDNEY, Sept. 19 (Xinhua Finance) -- From September 18 to 20, the Sydney leg of the 2026 Australia Electric Mobility Expo opened its doors, presenting the latest lineup of electrified products. A number of Chinese new-energy vehicle makers sent fresh model ranges to the event. Several individuals interviewed at the venue expressed confidence that, given the steady expansion of Australia's electric car sector, Chinese automakers are well placed to capture further ground locally by leveraging technical advances and region-specific business strategies.
On the exhibition floor, brands including Chery, GAC, SAIC MG, Great Wall, Zeekr, and BYD displayed an array of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Local attendees gathered around booths asking questions about specifications and lined up for test-drive bookings.
Stan, who travels from Kangaroo Island in South Australia, has been driving a Chinese-brand EV for roughly eight months. He told reporters that he spotted a newer model on display and is now weighing whether to swap out his current car. "I really enjoy Chinese cars," he remarked.
Dan Caesar, CEO of the expo, spoke with Xinhua correspondents, pointing out that Australia's EV segment has posted notably strong growth since the start of the year. As buyers grow more attentive to total cost of ownership, they are increasingly familiar with the practical benefits of going electric.
Caesar acknowledged that Australia's vast geography and frequent long-distance travel had previously made some consumers wary of range limitations. However, with a broader selection of models available and more people gaining hands-on experience behind the wheel, those concerns are fading. "Folks are coming to realize that electric cars can handle everyday driving needs here just fine," he said.
Industry figures underscore the shift. According to data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, pure-electric vehicles accounted for 24.9 percent of new-car sales in August, a 171-percent jump year over year. Five Chinese marques -- BYD, Great Wall, SAIC MG, Geely, and Chery -- all ranked within the top ten of the monthly new-vehicle sales chart.
Caesar added that the entry of Chinese brands has broadened options for Australian buyers. He highlighted the competitiveness of these vehicles in areas such as smart technology, feature sets, and pricing, and was particularly impressed by how quickly Chinese OEMs adapt their offerings to suit distinct market demands.
Lu Wen, general manager of Chery's Australian operation, observed that local acceptance of Chinese EV brands keeps climbing, ultimately driven by genuine product strength -- spanning engineering, design, build quality, value proposition, and a diverse portfolio of electrified drivetrains. "Competitiveness for Chinese EVs has never been about price alone," he emphasized.
As an increasing number of Chinese marques establish footholds in Australia, building local operational capacity has become a critical pillar of market expansion.
Dimitri Andreaticis, marketing director for SAIC MG across Australia and New Zealand, explained that Australian drivers have particular preferences regarding handling dynamics and equipment levels, so the company tailors suspension calibration, trim packages, and exterior color palettes accordingly.
Yuan Xikun, head of the marketing department at GAC International's Australian entity, noted that the firm has onboarded 49 local dealerships to date and aims to expand that network to 60 within the year. The company has also set up a regional parts warehouse in Australia to streamline after-sales service and component logistics. Plans are underway to introduce two or three additional models next year based on local buyer feedback.
Looking ahead, Caesar believes that as more Australians get acquainted with and trial Chinese-made new-energy vehicles, the ceiling for Chinese brands in the Australian marketplace will continue to rise.