Australia has one of the highest rates of car ownership in the world, with nearly 790 vehicles per 1,000 people. In 2021, the country had 20.1 million registered motor vehicles, and 91.3% of households owned at least one vehicle, while 55.1% had two or more.
By 2023, new vehicle sales surged to 1,216,780 units, marking a 12.5% increase from 2022. Toyota dominated the market with a 17.7% share, while the Ford Ranger emerged as the best-selling vehicle, with 63,356 units sold. [1]
Once home to a thriving car manufacturing industry, Australia has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, driven by economic pressures, the end of local production, and a shift toward imports. Today, it ranks among the top 10 largest car importers globally.
However, iconic names like Holden and Morris are remembered for their unique contributions, while niche and performance brands like Elfin and Brabham maintain Australia’s presence in motorsport and specialty vehicles.
Although local mass production is a thing of the past, the spirit and innovation of Australian carmakers live on through these brands. Below, I highlight the top Australian car brands, showcasing their business achievements, contributions to the automotive world, and future outlook.
Did you know?In 2022, Australia imported $20.8 billion worth of cars, primarily from Japan, South Korea, China, and Thailand, positioning the country as the ninth-largest car importer globally. Cars were also Australia’s second most imported product that year. On the export side, Australia shipped $172 million worth of cars, ranking as the 56th largest car exporter in the world. [2]
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9. Jacer
Jacer F2K14
Founder: Jason Cutts
Popular Models: Jacer F2K, Jacer F2K10
Competitive Edge: Specialization in Formula Vee
Jacer designs, manufactures, and refines vehicles specifically for motorsport. It is primarily known for creating Formula Vee race cars.
These cars are celebrated for their lightweight construction, precise handling, and competitive edge in entry-level open-wheel racing. Jacer prioritizes weight reduction, aerodynamic efficiency, and handling, which give its vehicles a performance advantage on the track.
A popular choice among entry-level racers is the Jacer F2K, known for delivering strong performance and affordability within Formula Vee racing regulations. This model is optimized for Formula Vee’s 1600cc air-cooled engine class.
Another famous model is the Jacer F2K14 — it is focused on enhancing the power-to-weight ratio by further reducing unnecessary bulk in the chassis and other components. Plus, it features a refined cockpit layout that prioritizes driver comfort and control, reducing fatigue in longer races and supporting consistent performance throughout.
8. ACE EV Group
ACE Yewt
Founder: Gregory McGarvie, Will Qiang
Models: ACE Cargo, Yewt, V1 Transformer
ACE EV Group builds light electric vehicles for urban and last-mile logistic solutions. It operates on a Business-to-business (B2B) and Business-to-government (B2G) model, targeting industries needing efficient, eco-friendly transport solutions.
The company appeals to small and medium-sized businesses that may not be able to afford larger, high-end EVs. They have a diverse lineup of models, including the ACE Cargo (electric delivery van), ACE Yewt (pickup truck), and ACE V1 Transformer (multi-purpose EV, adaptable for various use cases). [3]
However, as of 2024, it has yet to establish commercial production and is still seeking a suitably sized factory to support manufacturing efforts.
7. Jaunt Motors
Founder: Dave Budge
Popular Models: Electric Land Rover Defender, Classic Mini
Competitive Edge: Merges classic cars with EV technology
Jaunt Motors represents a forward-thinking approach to classic car preservation, merging electric technology with iconic 4×4 designs. The company operates on a custom conversion and retrofit model, targeting classic car enthusiasts, particularly those interested in Land Rover Defenders.
Rather than building new vehicles, Jaunt converts existing ones, promoting a sustainable, low-waste model. They are among the first to focus specifically on electric conversions of iconic off-road vehicles in Australia, differentiating themselves in a niche with limited competition.
The Land Rover Defender Series IIA conversion has become Jaunt’s signature model — customers really like the blend of classic design and sustainable performance. Jaunt operates on a made-to-order basis, and each conversion takes several months.
In 2024, Jaunt’s CEO and co-founder, Dave Budge, was honored as one of Australia’s Top 100 Innovators by The Australian newspaper. [4]
6. H2X Global
Established in 2019Founder: Brendan Norman, Chris Reitz
Popular Model: Warrego, Yarra
Competitive Edge: Modular chassis system
H2X Global builds hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen-powered solutions across industries. It operates on an innovation-driven, environmentally focused model, aiming to contribute to the global shift toward zero-emission transport.
The company has developed a modular chassis system that allows them to use the same hydrogen fuel cell technology across multiple vehicle types, creating a scalable production model. [5]
Their flagship utility truck, the Warrego 90XR, boasts a powerful 260 kW motor, supported by a 60 kW peak fuel cell and a 30 kWh battery pack. To enhance performance, it includes an 8 kW supercapacitor at 416V with a discharge capacity of 2.6 kiloamps. With a hydrogen capacity of 6 kg, it achieves a range of 450 km, making it well-suited for extended travel. The Warrego 90XR can reach a top speed of 130 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds.
Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its lineup with trucks and buses. In 2023, it secured $3.44 million in an undisclosed funding round to support its growth and development. [6]
5. Minetti Sports Cars
Minetti SS-V1
Popular Models: Minetti SS-V1, SS-V2
Competitive Edge: Accessible price point for amateur racers
Minetti designs and manufactures lightweight, high-performance sports cars for motorsports enthusiasts and semi-professional racers. It also provides personalized engineering solutions, adapting models to meet customer specifications.
Minetti cars are meticulously designed with a focus on weight reduction, enhancing handling and performance on the track. Unlike other high-performance sports cars that can be prohibitively expensive, Minetti provides high-quality, performance-oriented options at a relatively accessible price point for amateur racers.
Their best-selling model, the SS-V1, is compact and lightweight at 450-500 kg. It is built on a Motorsport Australia-approved space-frame tubular chassis with fiberglass bodywork, aiming to deliver performance comparable to a V8 Supercar or GT3 sportscar.
The SS-V1 comes in a basic kit form with options for a rolling chassis, allowing for customization. It’s powered by a modern inline 4-cylinder motorcycle engine, suitable for engines like the Suzuki Hayabusa or Kawasaki ZX14. This makes the SS-V1 an affordable yet competitive track car.
4. Devaux Cars
Founder: David J. Clash
Popular Models: Devaux Coupe
Competitive Edge: Vintage aesthetics combined with modern engineering
Devaux Cars is a boutique Australian automaker that focuses on creating limited-edition, handcrafted luxury cars inspired by 1930s art deco designs. It caters to a niche market of luxury car enthusiasts who appreciate vintage aesthetics combined with modern engineering.
Their cars are modeled after the pre-World War II era, particularly inspired by French coachbuilders like Delahaye and Bugatti, giving Devaux a unique design advantage. Despite their vintage appearance, Devaux cars incorporate modern engineering and safety standards, offering a seamless blend of classic design and contemporary performance.
The Devaux Coupé is the sole model produced by the company. It’s a two-door luxury coupé featuring sweeping lines and a long bonnet. The car is powered by a modern V6 or V8 engine, typically sourced from Jaguar.
With a power-to-liter ratio of 65 PS and a power-to-weight ratio of 282 PS per ton, this coupe combines power and elegance. The torque-to-weight ratio of 362 Nm (267 lb-ft) per ton ensures strong, consistent performance, while the 6-speed transmission and front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to its classic, dynamic handling.
3. Borland Racing Developments
Founder: Mike Borland
Popular Models: Spectrum Formula Ford, Sabre Formula Vee
Competitive Edge: Lightweight chassis
Borland Racing Developments (BRD) designs and manufactures high-performance racing cars for various Australian motorsport categories. It caters to consumers in the racing community, producing custom race cars for clients. It also provides full maintenance, engineering support, and racing services for teams, including vehicle setup and parts manufacturing.
The company is renowned for its expertise in designing lightweight yet highly durable racing car chassis, with a focus on high-performance engineering that provides a competitive advantage in racing.
One of its most popular models, the Spectrum Formula Ford, is an open-wheeled racing car that has consistently excelled in both Australian and international Formula Ford championships.
Their latest model, the Spectrum 015 Formula Ford, has a 1.6-liter Duratec engine, a Hewland 4-speed gearbox, and a Motec data logging system. It is engineered to optimize airflow over the car and to the engine, enhancing straight-line performance with improved cooling and reduced drag.
The company produces a limited number of race cars, typically 10 to 15 units annually. Due to its specialization in a niche market, BRD operates on a modest revenue scale compared to mass-market automakers. Estimates indicate annual revenue of approximately $5.8 million, derived from car sales, engineering services, and maintenance support. [7]
2. Bolwell
Founder: Campbell Bolwell
Popular Models: Bolwell Nagari Mk VIII, Mk X
Competitive Edge: Lightweight engineering
Bolwell has a long-standing history of producing unique sports cars, earning a niche reputation among car enthusiasts both in Australia and internationally. The brand is renowned for its innovative use of lightweight materials, particularly composites, which enhance vehicle performance and improve fuel efficiency.
The company’s flagship model, the Bolwell Nagari Mk VIII, became its first full-production sports car, with 100 coupes and 18 Sports (roadster) versions produced in the 1970s. Despite its limited production, the Nagari Mk VIII remains highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts for its performance and unique design. [8]
In 2019, Bolwell launched the Nagari 500, which is equipped with a mid-mounted Chev LS3 V8 engine, an Audi 6-speed transaxle, and a carbon/Kevlar tub.
Beyond cars, Bolwell operates a composite manufacturing division, which adds stability to its business model by ensuring a more consistent revenue stream independent of vehicle sales. Its direct competitors include other boutique Australian car manufacturers like Elfin Sports Cars and Brabham Automotive, as well as international low-volume sports car producers.
1. Elfin Sports Cars
Founder: Garrie Cooper
Popular Models: Elfin T5 Clubman, MS8 Streamliner
Competitive Edge: Rich legacy in motorsport
Elfin Sports Cars builds high-performance, track-ready sports cars. It operates under a niche business model focusing on low-volume production and extreme customization.
As Australia’s oldest continuously operating sports car company, Elfin has a rich motorsport legacy. The company has produced a range of successful racing cars, including Formula 5000 and Le Mans models. Elfin drivers have won 29 championships and major titles, including four Australian Formula Ford Series and three Australian Tourist Trophies.
This racing DNA is reflected in the design and performance of its modern road cars. Each Elfin vehicle is meticulously hand-built, focusing on precision engineering, lightweight construction, and handling. Their power-to-weight ratio is among the best in their segment.
The Elfin T5 Clubman is among the most recognizable models. It has a 2.0-liter L4 engine that delivers 260 bhp of power and 351 Nm of torque. With a power-to-liter ratio of 132 PS and a power-to-weight ratio of 351 PS per ton, it offers impressive performance. Its torque-to-weight ratio of 468 Nm ensures strong acceleration and responsiveness. [9]
Elfin caters to a small, loyal customer base that values craftsmanship and race-oriented design, with sales typically made through direct orders or specialized dealerships.
Recently Defunct Brands
1. Brabham Automotive
Brabham BT63 GT2
Founder: David Brabham
Popular Models: Brabham BT62, BT63 GT2
Competitive Edge: Track-only Cars
Brabham Automotive, founded by David Brabham in collaboration with Australian investor group Fusion Capital, was a high-performance car manufacturer dedicated to producing ultra-exclusive, track-focused hypercars. To uphold its exclusivity, the company limited the production of its high-end vehicles.
The Brabham BT62, for example, features a 5.4L naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 700 horsepower, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. Production was capped at 70 units, all of which sold out quickly after launch.
However, in January 2024, Brabham Automotive ceased operations due to conflicts between Brabham and its supplier. The closure was also attributed to strategic differences between Fusion Capital and the company. [10]
2. Holden
Founders: James Alexander Holden, Sir Edward Holden
Popular Models: Holden Commodore, Holden Monaro
Competitive Edge: Local manufacturing
Holden was an iconic Australian car manufacturer that evolved from being a local assembler of General Motors (GM) vehicles to manufacturing its own line of cars. As a subsidiary of GM, Holden benefited from GM’s global platforms and technology, enabling it to produce a range of cars, including small cars and family sedans.
The company had a significant presence in Australian motorsports, especially in V8 supercars, which solidified its brand loyalty among car enthusiasts. One of its most beloved cars was the Holden Commodore, which competed fiercely with Ford in the domestic market.
During its peak in the late 1990s, Holden Commodore sales soared to 94,642 units in 1998, accounting for 63.5% of Holden’s total sales. The company’s highest sales occurred between 2002 and 2005, with over 170,000 vehicles sold annually. During this period, Holden was Australia’s top-selling brand, commanding a 21.6% market share. [11]
However, as the industry shifted towards more globalized manufacturing and consumer preferences moved towards SUVs and imports, Holden’s market share began to decline. Global competitors like Hyundai and Toyota offered more affordable, fuel-efficient vehicles, eroding Holden’s dominance in Australia. By the time Holden ceased production in 2017, its market share had dropped below 5%.
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Sources Cited and Additional References- Automotive Sales Data, Detailed stats for Australia by month, MarkLines
- Cars in Australia, Import/export data and latest trends, OEC
- HomePage, ACE EV light commercial electric vans and cars, ACE EV Group
- News, Jaunt CEO named one of Australia’s top 100 innovators, Jaunt Motors
- Revolutionizing hydrogen mobility, Key features of H2X technology, H2X Global
- H2X Global Limited, Company funding and financials, Crunchbase
- Revenue, Estimated revenue for Borland Racing, Zoominfo
- Cars, Bolwell Nagari Mk VIII 1970-1974, Forza Forums
- Powertrain Specs, Elfin T5 Clubman specs, FastestLaps
- News, Brabham Group & Brabham Automotive cease collaboration, DailySportsCar
- Harrison Broadbent, Why Australians fell out of love with Holdens, TheConversation
