Chinese EVs make major inroads as Australian market charges ahead

'Pretty cool' tech

The startup promotes itself as a technology company focused on artificial intelligence and the possibilities of how good future travel and transport mobility can be, he said.

Many Australian car buyers had initial concerns about the quality of Chinese imports, but quickly changed their minds when they saw the models on offer, Clarke said.

"Literally thousands of people have now sat in these (EVs) and they're quite surprised by the quality, refinement and the comfort as well as how desirable they are," he said.

For Zeekr, another popular Chinese EV manufacturer, innovation is one of its key attractions for potential buyers.

William Zhou, Zeekr's general manager for Australia and New Zealand, said the company is very confident about the prospects for its vehicles, not just in Australia, but also other international markets.

"There are huge opportunities for us. On top of the mainstream market, people are also looking for premium EVs with innovation and technology. In terms of battery (range), an intelligent cockpit and charging technology, the network and services… we position ourselves as premium," Zhou said.

Scott Maynard, managing director in Australia of Polestar, a Sweden-based EV manufacturer, said the company markets itself as a premium brand, and taps considerable Chinese know-how in the sector.

"We're seeing a groundswell of interest in electric vehicles here. Chinese technology finds its way into so many vehicles operating in Australia, and you'll see it in these (Polestar) cars too," Maynard said, adding the brand does its research and development in Europe and draws heavily on European influence and Scandinavian design.

"But, definitely, the hallmarks of technology founded in China find their way through," he added.

Gino Casha, head of Segway-Ninebot Australia, said China's lead in EV tech is seen in the company's products, such as its e-scooters.

"We're also moving into e-bikes and related products. The e-motorcycles are far more technologically advanced compared to others," he said, pointing out their inbuilt global positioning and traction-control features.

Segway-Ninebot recently topped global electric kick-scooter sales with more than 13 million units sold.

"EV technology in China is probably second to none," Casha said. "In terms of the smart connectivity for all of our products, some of the stuff you see in the electric cars are in these scooters, that's pretty cool technology in such a small package."