Light Vehicle Emissions Intensity in Australia: Trends Over Time report

For the first time, our report goes beyond new car sales data to include emissions intensity from nearly 17 million light vehicles registered since 2003 and still on the road today.

By analysing emissions data from almost all vehicles on our roads—not just those sold in a single year—it offers a clear and comprehensive picture of emissions intensity across Australia’s light vehicle fleet.

These insights are designed to help governments, industry stakeholders, and everyday drivers make more informed decisions to support emissions reduction efforts.
 

• Biggest drop in emissions intensity in 2023: New vehicles sold in 2023 achieved a 5 percent reduction in emissions intensity compared to 2022—the largest annual drop recorded since reporting began in 2009.
• Registered cars emissions intensity: The average emissions intensity for all vehicles on our roads as of January 2024 was 193.7 g/km, roughly the same for new cars sold ten years ago.
• Electric vehicle growth: Sales of battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles surged by 151 per cent in 2023, supported by more model options and improved driving range.
• Vehicle size matters: Larger vehicles, particularly utes, continue to grow in size. The average footprint of light vehicles increased by 6 per cent from 2003 to 2023.
• International comparison: In 2023, the average emissions intensity for new passenger vehicles and SUVs (excluding utes and vans) in 29 European countries was 107 g/km, significantly lower than Australia’s average of 150 g/km for similar vehicles. Our emissions intensity levels remain closer to those of Canada and the United States.

Discover how emissions trends are evolving and how different vehicle types contribute to Australia’s carbon footprint.

Download the full report here.

An infographic of the report’s key highlights can also be accessed here.

For further information or media inquiries, please contact the National Transport Commission at enquiries@ntc.gov.au. 
 

This year’s report takes a deeper dive into Australia’s light vehicle fleet, giving everyone—from governments to everyday drivers—a clearer picture of what’s happening on our roads.

Here’s how the report can help:

• Governments: Better understand trends across our vehicles to guide policies and planning.
• Fleet managers: Use the data to make more sustainable choices for fleet upgrades.
• Consumers: Compare vehicle options and make more informed purchasing decisions.

This year’s report highlights how far Australia has come and the challenges that remain in reducing vehicle emissions. By taking a broader look at the entire fleet, it opens the door to more informed conversations and practical steps for the future.

Explore the report to uncover trends, insights, and opportunities that can help shape Australia’s journey toward a more efficient and sustainable transport system.