Eleven rows are enough for a first shortlist
| Specification | Why it matters | What to record |
|---|---|---|
| WLTP range | A consistent laboratory comparison using the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure | Official figure plus a conservative highway estimate (typically 10–20% lower in real driving) |
| Energy use | Affects range and what charging costs you | Official kWh/100 km; seek independent tests too |
| Cabin heating | A heat pump usually uses less energy than a resistance heater, which can help winter range | Heat pump or resistance heater for the exact Australian variant; also check cabin and battery pre-conditioning |
| AC charging | Sets home/work charging speed (using the car's onboard charger) | Car’s maximum kW (typically 7 kW or 11 kW), not just the wallbox output |
| DC charging | Shapes road-trip stops | 10–80% charging time and independent tests showing how the speed changes as the battery fills |
| V2L capability | Powers home appliances from the car | Check if the variant supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and its maximum output in kW |
| Space | Determines everyday usefulness | Test your pram, luggage, seats and access |
| Payload/towing | Legal and practical limit | Payload (people and cargo), tow rating (note: towing can reduce EV range by 30–50%), and permitted towball weight |
| Warranty | Defines which faults the manufacturer covers—and for how long | Record separate years and kilometre limits for the whole vehicle, traction battery, electric powertrain and any components with shorter cover. Check the battery-capacity threshold and test method, exclusions, service conditions, transfer rules and roadside-assistance period |
| Scheduled servicing | Affects running costs after the energy bill | Written service intervals and current capped-price or itemised costs for the exact variant; include servicing in the ownership-cost comparison |
| Brand support | Determines how practical servicing, repairs and warranty work will be | Nearby authorised service locations, EV-trained technicians, parts supply, roadside assistance and what happens if the selling outlet closes |
Check the support behind the brand
A brand's Australian sales footprint is not a quality score, and a smaller or newer brand is not automatically a poor choice. It does change what you should verify. A large network may offer more service locations and parts pathways; a smaller network may still suit you if there is dependable local support and clear warranty responsibility.
Do not reduce a warranty to one headline number. A brand may advertise a long vehicle term while giving the traction battery, electric drive system, infotainment, suspension, paint, 12-volt battery or other parts different time and distance limits. Put the warranty booklet for each exact model year beside the quote and compare each category on the same basis.
Do not assume every EV has the same maintenance bill because the powertrain is simpler. Service intervals, inspection charges, model-specific fluids, tyres, parts prices and repair access vary by model and brand. Ask for written scheduled costs, locate the nearest authorised repairer and check the trip if the car cannot be driven. Then use the EV test-drive questions to collect the evidence before paying a deposit.
Check the full charging time, not only the maximum speed
A car advertised at 200 kW DC may touch that only briefly. Battery temperature, starting battery percentage and the charger all affect how charging speed rises and falls during the session. The better question is: “How long does 10–80% take in independent testing?” Likewise, a 7 kW home wallbox cannot make a car with a 3.6 kW onboard charger accept 7 kW.
Compare the same charging window: Check the starting and ending percentages. While some brands quote a standard 10–80% time, others quote 20–80% or even 30–80% in their brochures. A "28-minute" charge starting from 30% is much slower than a 28-minute charge starting from 10%.
WLTP is a fair comparison test, not a road-trip promise. Australian Automobile Association testing has found results 3–31% below official figures depending on the vehicle and conditions. Our range guide turns that uncertainty into a conservative planning estimate.
Specifications that usually matter less
By all means enjoy the 0–100 bragging rights—just do not let them drive the decision. Zero-to-100 time, maximum motor output, number of speakers and screen inches can break a tie, but they rarely rescue the wrong range, charging access or cabin. Wheel size can affect efficiency and ride comfort, so test the actual variant.
Common questions about EV specs
What is WLTP range?
WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) is the global standard laboratory test used to measure EV range. Unlike a petrol car, an EV will usually travel further in lower-speed city driving than at sustained highway speeds. Real-world highway range is typically 10–20% lower than the combined WLTP figure.
Why is DC charging specified as 10–80% instead of 0–100%?
Electric cars charge much slower as the battery fills up, especially after 80%, to protect battery health. On a road trip, it is much faster to unplug at 80% and continue driving than to wait for a full charge.
What charging connector does my EV use in Australia?
Almost all new electric cars sold in Australia use the CCS2 connector for DC fast charging and a Type 2 connector for AC charging. Older Nissan Leafs use CHAdeMO for DC charging, which is being phased out.
Assumptions and sources
- Australian Government Green Vehicle Guide—official Australian vehicle data and comparison tools.
- RACV: buying an EV—Australian buyer considerations.
Always confirm the exact model year and variant, current service schedule and local support arrangements with the manufacturer. Reviewed 16 July 2026.