Bank Australia to cut out car loans for new petrol and diesel cars by 2025

By Sara Borman · · 2 min read
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electric vehicle on top of the world with banks cutting loans on new petrol cars

Enticed by the idea of an electric vehicle (EV)? To show support for Australia’s climate change efforts, Bank Australia has stated its intent to phase out car loans for new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2025.

While green car loans are generally a tempting option for their lower rates, this is the next step in making an electric car a viable choice. Should other banks follow suit, we could see a large swing towards electric vehicles in Australia’s fleet.

National pressure is high to make moves in the EV industry. With the EU poised to phase out the sale of new combustion engine vehicles by 2035, Australia is fighting hard to stay competitive when it comes to clear climate action.

Electric vehicles could be a cheaper choice

This announcement comes alongside federal government plans to lessen the cost of electric vehicles.

These plans involve the removal of fringe benefits tax (FBT) for EVs, as well as the waiving of a 5% import tariff charged on electric cars from certain countries.

An anticipated drop in the price of lithium batteries (a key component in engines for electric cars) could also see prices lowering on EVs, potentially making them a lot more accessible for everyday Aussies.

Until then, limited new car supply in Australia will continue to drive up demand - and prices are sure to follow.

What does the push toward green vehicles mean for me?

Bank Australia has said that they will continue to offer second-hand car loans on fuel and diesel powered vehicles, as not everyone will be positioned to make the shift to an electric car at this stage.

Your existing car loans also won’t be impacted, so don’t think you’re going to get off that last year of repayments.

Until 2025 - or announcements from other lenders - there is unlikely to be any change, so your car shopping will be unaffected. Green loans are likely to score you lower interest rates, but the benefits of EVs have been demonstrated in their long-term savings on fuel (and their environmental footprint).

Hopefully this will see the continued growth of Australia’s electric vehicle market and movement towards net zero emissions.

For other banking options that make you feel good beyond just your wallet, we’ve rounded up some ethical banking options . If it’s car loans you’re after, find Mozo’s picks with our best car loans .