Cost and incentives

On average, charging an electric car is cheaper than refuelling a petrol car. In Australia, the cheapest way to charge your car is to use a power supply at home. Plugging into a fast DC charger at a motorway charging station is more expensive, but most EV drivers will only do so a small amount of the time.

Electric cars have far fewer moving parts when compared with conventional cars. Therefore, the service intervals are further apart, and the amount of maintenance that needs to be done is relatively limited. EVs such as Polestar 2 even allow remote diagnostics through their onboard internet connection, meaning that potential technical issues get noticed before becoming costly repairs.

As electric powertrains are less complicated and more efficient, wear and tear become less of a consideration. Electric motors and battery packs are built to last, and regenerative braking ensures that brake pads and discs endure well. Essentially, tyres, wiper blades and washer fluid are the parts that require the most attention. Nothing compared to all the items that can add to the maintenance costs of a conventional petrol powered car.

The lower running costs of an EV make them a compelling lease option. The monthly rate is usually lower because there’s less risk of high maintenance and changing fuel costs. Another plus is that performance EVs like Polestar 2 tend to be more resistant to depreciation (source: Driving Electric).

A number of incentives and benefits are available to help you make the switch to buying an electric car. These vary by State and Territory and include rebates, zero Stamp Duty and reduced Vehicle Registration fees. Electric Vehicles also attract less Luxury Car Tax. Other incentives proposed include subsidised car parking and allowing EVs to use transit lanes normally reserved for buses and taxis. At the same time, you can also enjoy typically lower running costs.

In most states and territories of Australia, to claim special incentives such as Rebates and Stamp Duty exemptions, you will be required to calculate the "dutiable value" of your vehicle. The dutiable value of a vehicle is the total amount paid (including GST) for the vehicle, which includes delivery costs, accessories and options added to the vehicle (e.g. towbar, upgraded wheels). Government charges such as registration fees and the cost of CTP insurance are not included in the dutiable value.

To see your dutiable value, head to the Polestar car configurator and locate "Vehicle total (including GST and delivery fee)" from within the vehicle pricing breakdown.

Once you have chosen the Polestar that meets your specifications, you'll be able to apply for the financing option that suits you best.