Why Selling Your Second Car for an E-Cargo Bike Makes Financial Sense in Australia
Thinking about ditching your second car? Replacing it with a high-quality electric cargo bike (e-cargo bike) could save you thousands of dollars annually while offering a more sustainable, stress-free way to get around. Whether you live in Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane, e-cargo bikes are becoming a practical alternative to second cars, especially for families and urban commuters.
How Much Can You Save?
1. Upfront Savings from Selling Your Car
Selling Your Car: The average used car in Australia sells for $15,000–$25,000.
Buying an E-Cargo Bike: A high-quality e-cargo bike costs between $5,000 and $12,000.
Net Savings: You could free up $5,000–$20,000 upfront by making the switch.
2. Annual Savings from Lower Operating Costs
Owning and maintaining a car is expensive. Here’s how much you could save per year by switching to an e-cargo bike:
| Expense | Car (AUD) | E-Cargo Bike (AUD) | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $1,920–$3,000 | $50–$200 | $1,870–$2,950 |
| Maintenance | $800–$1,500 | $150–$400 | $650–$1,350 |
| Insurance | $1,000–$2,000 | $200–$500 | $800–$1,500 |
| Registration | $700–$1,200 | $0 | $700–$1,200 |
| Depreciation | $1,500–$5,000 | $200–$800 | $1,300–$4,200 |
| Total Savings | $5,320–$11,200 |
3. Additional Financial and Lifestyle Benefits
No Parking Fees: In Melbourne and Sydney, parking costs can exceed $2,000 per year.
No Traffic Hassles: Get around faster in urban areas without congestion delays.
Health Benefits: Cycling improves fitness and mental well-being, reducing potential healthcare costs.
Eco-Friendly: Lower your carbon footprint by reducing car dependency.
Novated Leasing for E-Bikes – A Smart Alternative
If you want an e-bike or e-cargo bike but prefer not to pay upfront, novated leasing is an excellent option. Many employers in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane now offer salary-sacrifice programs for e-bikes. This allows you to pay for your e-bike pre-tax, reducing your taxable income and making the transition even more affordable.
Real-World Example: How Much Can You Save?
Let’s say you own a mid-range car that costs $2,500 in fuel, $1,000 in maintenance, $1,500 in insurance, $1,000 in registration, and $2,000 in depreciation per year—a total of $8,000 annually.
Switching to an e-cargo bike with estimated yearly costs of $200 for charging, $300 for maintenance, and $300 for insurance would bring your total annual expenses to $800. That’s a savings of $7,200 per year.
Final Thoughts: Is It Time to Make the Switch?
If you live in Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane and mostly use your second car for short trips, replacing it with an e-cargo bike is a smart financial and lifestyle choice. With significant savings, health benefits, and a positive environmental impact, making the switch is easier than ever—especially with novated leasing options available.
Ready to explore e-cargo bikes? Check out our range and see how you can start saving today!
