NRMA Insurance says it recorded a 72% jump in electric vehicle quote requests last month compared with a year earlier.

And the insurer notes it has been a record year for EV quote enquiries, which have risen 80% across the first nine months.

EM for motor repair supply chain David Wilkes says the trend comes as motorists face some of the highest fuel prices on record, with the Middle East energy crisis entering its eighth month, driving diesel towards $3 a litre in some capital cities.

“Improved charging networks, lower running costs and a wider choice of vehicles are making EVs an increasingly attractive option, particularly as high petrol prices put increasing pressure on household budgets,” he said.

NRMA Insurance’s latest Changing Gears report says EV interest continues to increase, with just 17% of Australians saying they would not consider buying one.

But Mr Wilkes notes more education is needed, with many Australians holding outdated perceptions of EV ownership.

“Some of the concerns we see around access to charging and battery health don’t reflect the reality of modern EVs, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored,” he said.

“Providing clear information and helping customers understand the realities of EV ownership will be key to maintaining this momentum.”

New car sales data released by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries this week shows EVs outsold petrol cars for the second month in a row, taking a 24.2% share of the Australian new car market. More than 26,200 EVs were sold last month.

NRMA Insurance says EVs make up about 3% of its motor policies but it expects the figure to be about 10% by 2030.