EV registrations rise in Europe

Electric vehicles (EVs) have seen a 5.7% increase in registrations in the European Union since the beginning of 2026, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA). This growth comes despite rising fuel prices and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with support from government incentives and a wider range of EV models.

EV market share grows significantly

Over the first nine months of 2026, 1.93 million EVs were registered in the EU, giving them a 22.7% market share. This is up from 16.1% during the same period in 2025. France leads in growth, with a 79.1% increase in EV registrations, while Germany recorded the highest number of EVs, totaling 604,144 units.

Hybrids dominate the European market

Non-rechargeable hybrids remain the most popular propulsion system in Europe, with a 36.3% market share and nearly 3.1 million units registered in the EU. Italy and Spain saw the strongest growth in hybrid vehicles, with increases of 20.8% and 20.5% respectively, while France and Germany experienced more moderate growth.

Rechargeable hybrids gain ground

Rechargeable hybrids, which can be plugged in to charge, also continued their progress, with 860,257 units registered between January and September 2026. Italy, Spain, and Germany saw significant increases in rechargeable hybrid registrations, at 72.4%, 34.7%, and 13.7% respectively. These vehicles now account for 10.1% of the EU’s total registrations.

Gasoline and diesel cars decline

Gasoline cars continued their decline, with a 19.1% reduction in registrations. France experienced the most significant drop, with a 36.1% decline, followed by Germany with a 22.7% decrease. Diesel cars also saw a decrease, with a 19.5% drop in registrations, bringing their market share down to 7.1% in the EU.

Volkswagen stays on top

Volkswagen remained at the top of the European market with a 26.2% market share and 2.23 million registrations since the beginning of 2026. Its market share slightly decreased, but Stellantis maintained a stable market share of 15.8%, with a 5.1% increase in registrations.

Tesla and Chinese brands grow

Tesla recorded one of the strongest annual growths, with an increase of 68.9%, registering 188,035 units and holding a 2.2% market share. Chinese manufacturers, including Geely and BYD, saw notable increases, with Geely reaching a 2.8% market share and BYD achieving a 2.4% market share. Chinese brands collectively accounted for 9.9% of the market share in Europe.