Why So Many Australians Are Curious About EVs
From Sydney to Perth, EV sales are climbing fast – up more than 120% in the past year according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. For many drivers, though, the decision to switch isn’t simple. An EV isn’t just a car; it’s a whole new way of running your daily life.
People often ask themselves:
- Will charging fit around my work and family routine?
- Are the savings as good as they look on paper?
- What if I buy and regret it?
These are fair questions. And until recently, the only way to find out was to take a leap into ownership or a long lease.
The Car Subscription Approach: A Middle Ground
Car subscription changes that equation. Instead of buying an EV outright, you can live with one for a few months and see if it really works for you.
It’s not just about the car itself; it’s about the lifestyle. With subscription you can:
- Try charging at home, work, and public stations.
- Track real-world running costs compared to petrol.
- See how range and battery life hold up in your everyday driving.
- Decide with confidence whether long-term EV ownership makes sense for you.
“We’ve seen families, gig workers, and businesses all use subscription as a ‘trial run’ for EVs. It’s not about pushing people to buy, it’s about giving them real-world experience before making a long-term commitment.”
– Laura Harewood, CRO at Karmo
What You Learn When You Trial an EV
Most people discover things they hadn’t expected:
- Charging is easier (or harder) than imagined, depending on their setup.
- Running costs are more predictable and usually lower than petrol. The CSIRO notes that electricity is consistently cheaper per kilometre than fuel.
- Range anxiety tends to fade after the first few weeks.
- Some models feel perfect; others don’t quite fit.
That insight is priceless before spending $60,000+ on a purchase.
The Benefits of Car Subscription in Plain Terms
While this isn’t a sales pitch, it’s worth noting why subscription works well for testing EVs:
- Short-term commitment : start with just a few months subscription term.
- Everything bundled : insurance, servicing, registration and roadside included in the weekly fee.
- Freedom to switch : change cars or stop altogether with little notice.
The Australian Government’s EV strategy highlights the importance of giving drivers flexible pathways into electric transport. Subscription fits perfectly with that approach.
A Smarter Way to Make the Switch to an EV
For many Australians, subscription is becoming part of the decision-making process: trial first, then choose whether to buy. Some even stick with subscription longer-term because the flexibility suits their lifestyle.
“Subscription isn’t here to replace ownership for everyone. It’s about helping people explore new technology in a way that’s financially safe and practically flexible. For EVs in particular, that freedom is essential.”
– Laura Harewood, CRO at KarmoSwitching to an EV: The Bottom Line
Electric vehicles are exciting, but they also come with unknowns. Rather than guessing, subscription lets you experience EV life on your own terms. That way, when you do make a decision, whether to buy, continue subscribing, or return to petrol, you’ll know it’s the right one for you.
Authors
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Samuel Merigala is a digital marketing specialist with experience spanning SaaS, automotive, and mobility sectors. With a Master of Business from The University of Queensland, Sam specialises in growth marketing strategy, content development, and data-driven campaign execution across Australian markets.
Connect with Samuel on LinkedIn
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Laura Harewood brings over 25 years of automotive and fleet management expertise to her role as Group Chief Revenue Officer. With a background spanning operations, procurement, and strategic planning, Laura is passionate about innovative mobility solutions and sustainable fleet management practices.
Connect with Laura on LinkedIn