New fuel and EV-range labels: compare the test method as well as the number

22 October 2026

Australian Government guidance says updated fuel-consumption, emissions, energy-consumption and battery-range labelling requirements apply to newly approved vehicle models supplied for the first time from 1 July 2026. The requirements are based on the Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure, usually called WLTP.

The same guidance gives 1 July 2028 as the application date for all new light vehicles supplied. During a transition, advertisements and specification sheets may therefore describe vehicles using different test bases. Ask which procedure produced the figure you are comparing.

A laboratory result provides a standardised comparison; it is not a personal promise about the exact consumption or range you will achieve. Keep your own driving pattern, charging arrangements and vehicle specification in the discussion.

The government also explains that supplier emissions targets and vehicle test procedures need conversion arrangements during the transition. Those industry rules should not be confused with a new obligation for an existing owner to replace their car. When reading a review or brochure, record the model, variant, test method and publication date together.