Record fuel prices push more than half of Qlders to consider EVs
In March 2026, just weeks after the conflict in the Middle East began, 57% of drivers said they were more likely to consider buying an electric vehicle compared to 35% just six months prior.
The growing shift comes as RACQ’s latest Quarterly Fuel Price Report revealed Brisbane recorded the highest average diesel price of the largest capital cities in the March quarter at 209.3 cents per litre (cpl).
Petrol offered little price relief, with Brisbane ranking as the second most expensive capital at an average of 197.4cpl.
RACQ Principal Economic and Affordability Specialist Dr Ian Jeffreys said stubbornly high prices were forcing more Queenslanders to look beyond petrol and diesel.
“Brisbane prices surged with average unleaded hitting a new record high of 258.9cpl on 31 March - 26.5 cents above the previous record, while diesel climbed to an unprecedented 327.6cpl on 10 April, almost 90 cents higher than the last peak in 2022.
“With fuel prices remaining elevated and electric vehicles becoming more affordable and available, it’s no surprise more motorists are seriously considering making the switch,” Dr Jeffreys said.
“Looking at RACQ’s latest Vehicle Operating Costs report shows the stark difference in running costs, with a common EV, such as the 2025 BYD Dolphin, costing around $50 a month to charge compared with $174.20 per month to fill a 2025 Hyundai i30 (considering current fuel prices).”
Despite the surge in interest, Dr Jeffreys said a number of barriers continued to prevent drivers from jumping into an EV.
“Our research shows range anxiety is still an issue for almost one in three (30%) of respondents, while limited access to public charging stations is holding back just under 40% of potential EV owners,” he said.
RACQ said addressing these concerns was critical to accelerating EV uptake and continued to advocate for expansion of fast-charging sites across Queensland, undertaking consumer events such as EV test drive days and EV displays at MotorFest next month.
Read the full March Quarter Fuel Price Report.
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