Who’s Plugging In? Exploring Socio-Economic and Demographic Patterns of Early EV Uptake in Australia

Understanding how socio-economic and demographic factors influence electric vehicle (EV) adoption is crucial for designing equitable policies that support the global transition to sustainable transportation. While EV uptake is rising worldwide, adoption patterns often reflect existing social and economic inequalities, with higher-income communities more likely to benefit from emerging technologies. Addressing these disparities is essential to ensure an inclusive transition. This study focuses on Australia, using New South Wales (NSW) as a case study to examine how socio-economic and demographic characteristics shape EV adoption across different postcodes. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using 2021 data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) census and EV registration records. Postcodes were categorised based on EV uptake levels, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression models were applied to identify key influencing factors. The results show a strong correlation between higher EV adoption rates and areas with greater wealth and population density. In contrast, factors such as marital status, dwelling structure, driving habits, vehicle ownership, and younger age showed no significant association with uptake. These findings highlight the need for targeted policy interventions to bridge socio-economic gaps in EV adoption. Expanding charging infrastructure and providing financial incentives in lower-income areas could promote more inclusive access to EV technology. Moreover, aligning EV adoption strategies with broader environmental and transportation policies can further accelerate Australia’s energy transition. This study emphasises that a more equitable approach to EV adoption not only enhances environmental outcomes but also supports a fair and sustainable transportation future for all communities.