Hyundai is preparing to expand its Ioniq electric line-up with a new compact hatchback, previewed by the striking Concept Three unveiled in Europe. If production follows the path set by earlier Hyundai show cars, the finished model will arrive as the Ioniq 3, targeting rivals such as the Volkswagen ID.3 when it launches in mid-2025.

Although the concept features dramatic touches such as rear-hinged coach doors, oversized wheels and a full pixel-screen front grille, the underlying proportions closely mirror the eventual production model. At 4288mm long, Concept Three is slightly larger than the ID.3 and only 52mm shorter than Hyundai’s i30 petrol hatch, hinting at a roomy, practical interior.

Hyundai is expected to price the Ioniq 3 from around £28,000 (A$54,000), positioning it between the upcoming Inster city EV and the larger Kona Electric SUV in the brand’s range.

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Hyundai Design Europe’s chief designer Eduardo Ramirez told AutoExpress that the goal was a “very sporting stance with a clear silhouette defined by aero hatch profile and EV-specific proportions with the low front.” The pixel lighting theme already seen on the Ioniq 5, 6 and 9 is carried through, with animated parametric pixels giving the rear light bar a 3D effect.

Up front, the pixel grille can display animations of a digital mascot dubbed Mr Pix. While unlikely to reach production, head of design Simon Loasby suggested it could be feasible: “We can do it, but it’s about adding cost. There is a fun factor and it’s memorable,” he said.

Other styling flourishes include what appear to be twin exhaust outlets but are in fact speakers to deliver an ‘emotive experience through sound’, plus playful touches such as “May the downforce be with you” etched into the oversized rear diffuser. That diffuser, like the coach doors, will be dropped for production.

The concept’s cabin was designed to feel like a living room, with each element imagined as a piece of furniture. While the production car will adopt a more conventional interior, Hyundai Europe boss Xavier Martinet told AutoExpress the exterior will remain close to the concept: “The dimensions are very, very close to what you’ll have with the final vehicle… the interior will be more traditional, although don’t expect it to be boring.”

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Though the Concept Three is purely a styling exercise, the production Ioniq 3 is expected to share the Hyundai Group’s 58kWh battery, offering around 150kW (201bhp) and a range of more than 440 kilometres (WLTP). Higher-performance or longer-range versions are likely to follow.

As AutoExpress concluded, Concept Three not only signals Hyundai’s intent to challenge the Volkswagen ID.3 head-on but also showcases the brand’s growing confidence in delivering compact EVs that are practical, distinctive and fun.

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Chinese electric brand Deepal has officially launched its second vehicle in Australia, the E07 Multitruck, a model designed to bridge the gap between premium SUVs and practical utes. The E07 is described as neither one nor the other, but instead a “transformative multifunctional EV” aimed at reflecting modern Australian lifestyles.

The E07 features a coupe-inspired silhouette with a muscular stance, signature full-width LED lighting and an aerodynamic active grille. Black-clad arches frame specially developed low-noise wheels, while its rear section distinguishes the vehicle from most EVs on the market. With a single touch, the rear architecture transforms into a flexible load space, suitable for carrying trade equipment during the week or surfboards and camping gear on weekends.

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Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology is included, offering power outlets inside and outside the vehicle for running appliances and accessories, effectively turning the E07 into a mobile hub.

Deepal Australia general manager Cormac Cafolla said the vehicle represents a “defining moment” for the brand locally. “We are here to give Australians a smarter, more versatile and more immersive choice in electric mobility. The E07 doesn’t just raise the bar – it changes the game entirely,” he said.

The cabin has been designed as a lounge-like sanctuary, with zero-gravity seating, integrated massage functions and advanced noise insulation. Black leather upholstery is standard, with an optional Premium Orange interior for $500. Ambient lighting with 256 colour options and a premium sound system create a personalised, immersive environment.

Buyers can also opt for an exclusive Jade Green finish on the AWD Performance, or Spessartite Orange and Matte Hematite Grey for $1,800. Standard colours include Quartz White and Obsidian Black, with Hematite Grey reserved for RWD variants.

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Two variants will be offered in Australia:

• E07 RWD – priced from $64,900 (MLP), powered by a single 252 kW motor producing 365 Nm. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and delivers up to 550 km of WLTP range.
• E07 AWD Performance – priced from $73,900 (MLP), with dual motors combining for 440 kW and 645 Nm. Acceleration is 0–100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, with a range of up to 510 km WLTP.

Both models feature 240 kW DC fast-charging, capable of taking the battery from 30 to 80 per cent in 15 minutes. Using a 7 kW AC home charger, a full recharge takes 13–16 hours.

Deepal says the RWD model is targeted at drivers who value long-range efficiency and everyday practicality, while the AWD Performance variant is pitched at those seeking maximum performance and versatility. Despite its dual-motor setup, the Performance maintains strong range and towing ability.

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With the first vehicles now arriving in Australia, customers can book test drives and configure vehicles online or through local retailers.

The E07 Multitruck is the latest step in Deepal’s expansion strategy, which the brand says is focused on offering Australians vehicles that are both immersive and adaptable—blending design sophistication with genuine dual-purpose utility.

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Leapmotor has used the IAA Mobility 2025 show in Munich to debut two important new models: the world premiere of the B05 sport hatchback and the official European launch of the B10 compact SUV. Both vehicles signal the brand’s global ambitions as it seeks to expand rapidly into Europe and beyond.

The B05 (main, and below) is a sleek, zero-emission hatchback designed to appeal to younger buyers. It showcases Leapmotor’s “Tech-Nature Aesthetic,” combining muscular surfacing with urban-inspired design cues. Measuring 4430mm long, 1880mm wide and 1520mm high, with a 2735mm wheelbase, it sits on a broad footprint and offers one of the widest stances in its segment.

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Frameless doors, 19-inch “Swift-Wing” alloys and bold proportions give the B05 a distinctive identity, while inside, the cabin emphasises digitalisation and modern finishes. Company founder and CEO Zhu Jiangming described the B05 as “more than a car – it’s a statement… a bold expression of performance ambition and innovation.”

Although technical specifications are yet to be finalised, the B05 is expected to form a key part of Leapmotor’s push into Europe’s crowded compact EV market, offering style and agility at an accessible price point.

The B10 SUV takes centre stage in Leapmotor’s expansion strategy. Orders opened in select European markets in late July, with first deliveries to coincide with its Munich debut in September. Thanks to Leapmotor’s partnership with Stellantis, the vehicle will be distributed across more than 30 regions including Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and South America.

Built on Leapmotor’s new LEAP3.5 platform, the B10 is positioned in Europe’s competitive C-segment and priced from €29,900 (about A$48,900). It comes in two trims – Life and Design – with the latter adding features such as eco-leather seating, ambient lighting and heated, ventilated front seats.

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Dimensionally, the B10 measures 4,515mm long, 1,885mm wide and 1,655mm high, with a 2,735mm wheelbase. Inside, it offers generous space with flexible seating and 22 storage compartments. Rear passengers benefit from 1,400mm of width, plus headroom of 1,027mm at the front and 1,005mm at the rear.

The B10 features a 14.6-inch 2.5K floating touchscreen powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155 processor, running Leap OS 4.0 Plus with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (via OTA update). A customisable 3D digital cockpit, AI-driven modes and full remote access through the Leapmotor app are standard.

Performance comes from a 218hp (163kW) motor producing 240Nm, allowing 0–100km/h in eight seconds and a top speed of 170km/h. Two battery options are offered: a 56.2kWh pack (range up to 361km WLTP) and a 67.1kWh pack (range up to 434km WLTP). Both support 11kW AC charging and 168kW DC fast-charging, with 30–80% charge achievable in under 20 minutes.

Leapmotor also highlights balanced driving dynamics, with 50:50 weight distribution, multi-link rear suspension and chassis tuning developed in cooperation with Stellantis. Safety features include a high-strength steel safety cage, 17 advanced driver assistance functions and a 360-degree camera system, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating targeted.

Leapmotor says the B10 will appeal to design-conscious younger buyers and small families seeking affordable EVs with long range and modern features. With Stellantis providing a distribution network and engineering support, the B-Series rollout represents the most significant step yet in Leapmotor’s global strategy.

MG Motor Australia has announced local pricing and specifications for its first-ever ute, the MGU9, confirming three trim levels – Explore, Explore X and Explore Pro – for both the Australian and New Zealand markets.

Prices will range between $55,000 and $65,000 AUD in Australia and $65,000 to $75,000 NZD in New Zealand. MG says the model has been benchmarked specifically for Australasian conditions, blending the toughness expected of a ute with the technology and comfort more typical of modern SUVs.

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Kevin Gannon, MG Motor Australia’s Business Director, said the line-up was created to appeal to a wide spectrum of buyers. “With the MGU9 range we’ve created a vehicle line-up that combines comfort, capability, and innovation in equal measure,” he said. “From refined ride comfort and advanced safety features to smart design touches that make life easier, the MGU9 proves that Australians no longer have to choose between practicality and innovation when looking for their next ute.”

The MGU9 interior emphasises flexibility, with up to 32 storage spaces and MultiFold seating upholstered in premium vegan leather. The rear seats fold completely flat, creating a cabin-to-tub pass-through when paired with MG’s optional Smart Hatch system. The front passenger seat can also fold back to form an extended flat surface for resting or transporting long items.

The Smart Hatch, standard on the Explore Pro, allows the rear cabin window to retract electronically, further increasing load-carrying versatility and demonstrating MG’s push towards customer-focused features.

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Inside, the cabin adopts a cockpit-inspired layout, highlighted by an aircraft-style gear selector. The infotainment system, with a horizontal screen layout and vertical air vents, supports voice activation, allowing drivers to keep hands on the wheel. Storage is neatly integrated into the centre console, with a sliding compartment and hidden cupholders.

The MGU9’s official launch for Australia and New Zealand will be detailed in coming months, with final pricing, delivery schedules and warranty information still to be confirmed. Customers can secure a vehicle now via mgmotor.com.au or through their local dealership.

MG says the MGU9 range is designed to meet the needs of both commercial operators and private buyers seeking a practical yet comfortable ute for family, work and recreational use.

Cupra has taken the wraps off the Tindaya concept, a striking four-door SUV that previews the brand’s next design phase and showcases technology destined for its flagship models later this decade.

Unveiled at the Munich Motor Show, the Tindaya hints at a production model that would sit above the Terramar and Tavascan in Cupra’s line-up. Although initial plans to lead the brand’s US expansion are on hold, the concept underlines Cupra’s intent to challenge rivals such as the upcoming BMW iX3 and Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

Named after a volcanic mountain on Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands – and likened to a modern version of the Batmobile – the Tindaya’s colour scheme shifts from metallic grey, representing the Atlantic Ocean, to desert sand, reflecting its namesake’s rock. Cupra’s familiar “shark nose” has been pushed to an extreme, joined by sharply defined triangular headlights, illuminated Perspex bumper elements, and a digital front panel projecting graphics linked to drive modes.

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At 4.7 metres long – almost identical to the new BMW X3 – the Tindaya has an imposing footprint. Its silhouette blends fastback SUV with shooting brake cues, emphasised by 23-inch wheels and rippling rocker panels inspired by muscle fibres. The rear features glowing fins, a massive diffuser, a twin-fin roof spoiler and an unpainted tailgate revealing natural-fibre composite instead of traditional carbon fibre.

Inside, coach doors reveal a cabin focused squarely on the driver. A 24-inch curved display replaces the central touchscreen, projecting driving and media data, supplemented by a head-up projection on the windscreen. Control comes via a racing-style steering yoke with physical switches and boost dials, backed by an AI assistant.

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Experience modes range from ‘Immersive’ (calm ambience, minimal information) to ‘Connected’ (AI-curated apps and services) and ‘Rider’ (sport settings, g-force readouts, neon lighting). Each setting comes with its own digital soundtrack.

Seating is configured as a 2+2 layout with bio-based vegan leather and 3D-knitted headrests. A central spine runs the length of the cabin, echoing Cupra’s signature design themes.

The Tindaya sits on the Volkswagen Group’s upcoming Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), set to underpin models from Skoda to Porsche. It supports both full-electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains.

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The concept shown used a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol generator feeding two electric motors for all-wheel drive, producing 365kW and capable of 0–100km/h in 4.1 seconds. With the generator running, Cupra claims the Tindaya could travel more than 1,000km on a single trip, with around 300km available in pure-electric mode.

A production version of the Tindaya is unlikely before 2029, but the concept signals Cupra’s ambition to combine design theatre, sustainable materials and advanced electrified performance in its future flagship SUV.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its new GLC with EQ Technology ahead of a 2026 Australian release. Replacing the former EQC in the Mercedes lineup, the electric GLC EQ boasts impressive features such as a huge new 39.1-inch touchscreen with AI-powered software and an 800 volt architecture with a 94kWh battery for up to 713km of range (WLTP).

Resembling the ICE-powered GLC already on sale but not mechanically related to it, the Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ is dimensionally different to its ICE sibling. Full dimensions are yet to be revealed, but its wheelbase is 84mm longer and its boot measures between 570 litres and 1740 litres (50 litres smaller with the rear seats up, but 60 litres larger with them folded). There’s a 128 litre front boot as well.

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The exterior design of the GLC EQ is bold and while it resembles the regular GLC, new features such as the illuminated grille set it apart visually from its ICE sibling. The rear uses a bar with new circular tailights. The smooth design of the body has allowed for an impressive aerodynamic coefficient of just 0.26.

The interior of the new GLC EQ is dominated by what Mercedes calls the ‘Hyperscreen’, which is a huge 39.1-inch screen that essentially covers the entire dashboard. Powered by the brand’s new ‘MB.OS Superbrain’ operating system, there are 11 different styles for the Hyperscreen and it also uses AI from both Microsoft and Google to “open up a new world of personalised experiences and intuitive interaction between human and vehicle”, according to its maker.

A new panoramic glass roof is also available, with its surface divided into nine switchable zones to choose how much light enters the cabin and passengers can choose between transparent and opaque. Optionally available too are 162 stars integrated into the glass, which are lit by ambient lighting.

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Under the body of the GLC EQ is a new 800 volt architecture, which allows for much higher charging speeds than before. According to Mercedes, it can add 303km of range in just 10 minutes of charging its 94kWh battery with its peak charging speed of 330kW.

According to Mercedes, the GLC’s ride quality is supreme thanks to its air suspension that was borrowed from the S-Class limo and the rear-axle steering gives it exceptional agility. It can also tow up to 2400kg and there’s a new braking system called ‘One-Box’, with four levels of regeneration and up to 300kW of recuperation.

For now, the sole GLC EQ model available is the GLC 400 4Matic, which uses a dual-motor drivetrain making 360kW of power. The GLC 400’s claimed WLTP range is 713km, while four other GLC models are due to be added in the future, likely including an AMG-branded version.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology will go on sale in Australia sometime in 2026, with local pricing and specifications to be confirmed before then.

Polestar has officially unveiled the Polestar 5, its new four-door electric Grand Tourer, positioned as the brand’s flagship model. Based on the 2020 Precept concept, the Polestar 5 translates that design study almost unchanged into production form, combining performance, sustainability and advanced driver technology.

Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller described the car as a turning point for the brand. “Polestar 5 is bringing the future to our present. Our vision for design, technology and sustainability is no longer a dream but a reality our customers can buy,” he said.

At five metres long, the Polestar 5 adopts an aerodynamic, aviation-inspired silhouette with a wing-like profile, Kamm-style tail and a drag coefficient of just 0.24 in dual-motor form. The front features Polestar’s SmartZone sensor array and distinctive dual-blade LED headlights. Frameless glass, retractable door handles and a vast panoramic roof enhance the minimalist design, while an aero-efficient lightbar defines the rear.

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Inside, the Polestar 5 has a 4+1 seating layout with Recaro-designed front seats offering low-slung positioning, strong bolstering and Swedish comfort. Rear passengers enjoy heating, ventilation and massage functions, with a foldable armrest creating a fifth seat when required.

The cabin makes extensive use of sustainable materials, including flax-based composites developed with BComp, recycled PET for headlining, Econyl for carpets and chrome-free Nappa leather. These lightweight bio-based materials reduce fossil fuel use and aid recyclability. A “foot garage” in the battery allows additional rear passenger space.

Technology includes a driver-focused 9-inch digital cluster mounted on the steering column, a 9.5-inch head-up display and a 14.5-inch portrait infotainment screen running Android Automotive OS with Google built-in. Audio is provided by either a 10-speaker system or an optional 21-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup.

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Underpinning the car is Polestar’s new bonded aluminium platform, forming the Polestar Performance Architecture (PPA). It delivers torsional rigidity exceeding that of some supercars while remaining lighter than steel. The structure integrates a 112kWh battery (106kWh usable), sourced from SK On.

The Polestar 5 will be offered in Dual Motor and Performance variants. The Dual Motor produces 550kW and accelerates from 0–100km/h in 3.9 seconds, while the Performance raises output to 650kW and 1,015Nm, cutting the sprint to 3.2 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250km/h.

An in-house developed rear motor provides up to 450kW alone, and efficiency is boosted by motor disconnect technology. Range is quoted at up to 670km WLTP for the Dual Motor and 565km WLTP for the Performance.

The 800V electrical architecture allows DC fast charging at up to 350kW, with 10–80% charge taking as little as 22 minutes. A charging indicator integrated into the C-pillar provides at-a-glance status.

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Chassis systems include Brembo brakes, adaptive MagneRide dampers on Performance models, double wishbone suspension and bespoke Michelin tyres up to 22 inches.

Eleven cameras, radar, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a driver monitoring camera support Polestar’s latest driver assistance suite, with Pilot Assist active up to 150km/h. Eight airbags and radar-based occupant detection enhance safety.

Orders for the Polestar 5 will open online from 8 September 2025, with initial deliveries across key global markets to follow. Pricing and Australian availability will be announced closer to launch.

Manufacturer’s list price includes GST, but excludes Government charges, delivery fees, and other on-road costs.

Audi Australia has confirmed pricing and specifications for the new Q6 Sportback e-tron, expanding its electric SUV range with three variants that blend coupé styling with advanced EV technology.

Arriving in showrooms imminently, the Sportback joins the Q6 SUV introduced earlier this year. Prices start from $99,900 before on-road costs for the entry Q6 Sportback, with the all-wheel-drive Q6 Sportback quattro and high-performance SQ6 Sportback completing the line-up.

Thanks to its sleeker body and low drag coefficient of 0.26, the Q6 Sportback delivers up to 585km of range (WLTP), the longest of any Q6 model in Australia. Audi’s 800-volt electrical system and advanced thermal management allow rapid recharging: under ideal conditions, the high-voltage battery can be replenished from 10 to 80 per cent in just 21 minutes. A 10-minute stop can add up to 265km of range at up to 270kW DC charging capacity.

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The rear-wheel-drive Q6 Sportback uses a single motor producing up to 215kW and 450Nm with launch control, sprinting from 0–100km/h in 7.0 seconds. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloys, leather-appointed sport seats, heated front and rear seating, tri-zone climate control and Audi’s full digital interior featuring three displays.

The Q6 Sportback quattro adds dual motors for all-wheel drive, generating 285kW and 580Nm to the rear axle and 275Nm to the front. It cuts the 0–100km/h sprint to 5.9 seconds and includes S line exterior styling, 21-inch alloys, upgraded interior trim and driver’s seat memory function.

At the top, the SQ6 Sportback delivers 380kW with launch control, enabling 0–100km/h in 4.3 seconds. Adaptive air suspension, S-specific bodywork, 21-inch Audi Sport wheels, red brake callipers and OLED tail-lights mark out its performance focus. Inside, buyers gain fine Nappa leather sport seats with massage function, augmented reality head-up display and a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium audio system.

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All models feature Audi’s latest driver assistance package, including adaptive cruise control, 360-degree cameras, lane support and emergency assist. The Q6 range recently achieved a 5-star ANCAP rating.

Buyers also receive a five-year warranty, eight-year/160,000km battery coverage and six years of roadside assistance. Service plans are available from $2,080.

The Q6 Sportback e-tron range is available to order now, with deliveries beginning soon at Audi dealers nationwide.

Pricing*

(*Manufacturer List Pricing [MLP] – excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charges)

Nissan has announced that the next-generation Qashqai will launch in Australia in the first half of 2026 with an exclusively e-POWER hybrid line-up, phasing out conventional petrol options.

The move reflects increasing local demand for hybrid technology, with Nissan saying the change will deliver an electric-style driving experience without the need for charging.

“Australian drivers have spoken clearly through their purchasing decisions – particularly in higher-grade models – demonstrating clear preference for the smooth, efficient, and refined EV-like driving experience that e-POWER delivers,” said Warwick Daly, Deputy Director of Product & Retail Campaigns at Nissan Australia.

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The new Qashqai adopts Nissan’s most advanced e-POWER system yet, promising efficiency gains and refinement improvements over the current model. Based on European WLTP testing, the SUV achieves fuel use of 4.5L/100km, a 16% improvement on real-world efficiency, and CO₂ emissions reduced by 12%. Range is claimed at up to 1,200 kilometres on a single tank.

Other upgrades include a 5.6dB reduction in cabin noise and a 10kW power boost in Sport Mode, giving the SUV a quieter and more responsive character.

Unlike traditional hybrids, e-POWER propels the car using only its electric motor, with the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine generating electricity on demand. This design enables instant acceleration, regenerative braking, and the convenience of refuelling at any petrol station.

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A key part of the Qashqai’s new X-in-1 e-POWER powertrain is being designed and manufactured in Australia. Nissan’s Casting Australia Plant in Dandenong South serves as the sole global supplier for these components, ensuring every new Qashqai e-POWER worldwide contains Australian-made technology.

Nissan says the decision underlines Australia’s contribution to the brand’s electrification strategy while supporting local jobs and expertise.

Full details of the Australian model range, including pricing and specifications, will be released closer to launch.

Hundreds of thousands of drivers in New South Wales will soon see a major change to their number plates, as the state prepares to roll out new identifiers for electric and hybrid vehicles.

The update affects around 367,000 EV and hybrid owners, who currently rely on blue-and-white adhesive stickers to alert emergency services to their vehicle’s fuel type. Under the new system, plates will feature an integrated identifier pressed directly into the metal, similar to the existing numbers and letters.

Transport for NSW said the new plates represent a step forward in both safety and customer experience. “NSW is the first state in Australia to introduce a safety label plate, which will help emergency services quickly identify an alternative fuel vehicle in a crash or fire,” Road Safety Regulation Executive Director Duncan Lucas said in a statement.

Lucas explained that unlike stickers, which can peel or be misplaced, the stamped design is more durable and ensures consistent placement. “Pressing a fuel identifier into a vehicle’s number plate is only a small change, but it will make a big difference to motorists and emergency crews,” he said.

“Unlike adhesive labels, the safety label is pressed into the plate like the numbers and letters, making it more durable and allowing the fuel type to be identified by its unique shape.

“Having a ‘built-in’ identifier also makes it easier for owners and drivers to stay compliant, with less maintenance and better long-term durability, and ensures correct placement of the safety label on the number plate for easier identification during an emergency.

Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Daniel O’Dea stressed the importance of clear identifiers for first responders. He noted that EVs carry unique risks such as high-voltage electrical systems, unexpected movement, and potential battery fires.

“The addition of a fuel-type identifier on number plates gives responders immediate confirmation they are dealing with an EV, allowing them to adapt their approach to keep both themselves and occupants safe,” he said.

By providing instant recognition, emergency teams can apply specialised rescue methods and reduce the risk of electric shock or chemical exposure.

Authorities confirmed there will be no additional cost for vehicle owners, and the new plates are expected to be phased in across NSW in the coming months.

With electric vehicles representing the fastest growing segment of the Australian car market, officials say the measure is a simple but effective way of supporting the technology’s growth while prioritising safety.