Electric car charging. Credit: Kindel Media, Pexels
Global electric vehicle (EV) sales surged to 9.1 million in the first half of 2025, according to new data from Rho Motion cited by Business Motoring. The research shows a 28 per cent year-on-year rise, with China and Europe leading the charge. Meanwhile, North America is stalling.
“Today’s EV sales figures of the first half of 2025 show that China and Europe are steaming ahead in terms of the electric transition,” said Charles Lester, data manager at Rho Motion.
China and Europe dominate EV sales growth
China remains the global powerhouse for electric vehicles, clocking in at 5.5 million units sold, up 32 per cent on last year. Over half of all EVs sold worldwide are bought in China, and nearly 50 per cent of new car purchases in the country are electric.
Europe followed with 2 million EVs sold, a 26 per cent increase year-on-year. However, growth varies widely by country:
- Spain led with an 85 per cent surge, thanks to the MOVES III and CAE incentive schemes.
- Germany and the UK posted strong increases of 40 and 32 per cent.
- France, however, saw a 13 per cent drop, which Lester attributed to fewer subsidies. “The UK and Germany are leading the way, leaving France in their dust as price-sensitive drivers continue to be at the mercy of subsidies.”
North America lags amid policy changes
North America recorded a disappointing 3 per cent growth. The breakdown is stark:
- Canada: down 23 per cent
- US: up 6 per cent
- Mexico: up 20 per cent
The figures are being linked to recent policy changes in the United States under President Donald Trump’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill’, which cuts back on EV support measures.
While the bill’s tax credits may briefly boost US sales in Q3, analysts predict a sharp decline in Q4 once incentives expire.
Both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) saw gains of 26 and 27 per cent. The strong PHEV performance was driven in part by Chinese manufacturers seeking to dodge international tariffs.
Despite reports of subsidy delays in some Chinese cities, the country continues to dominate the EV market. More government support is expected in the second half of 2025 to maintain momentum.
View all motoring news.
