In December 2025, electric vehicle sales in Europe finally outpaced gasoline cars, driven by tighter emissions rules. Discover the data – read more now.
According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), December 2025 marked a historic shift: pure‑electric vehicle registrations in the EU, the UK and EFTA nations collectively exceeded those of gasoline‑powered cars for the first time.
Overall market growth
New‑car registrations across the region rose 7.6 % in the month, bringing the year‑to‑date growth to roughly 2.4 %. When pure‑EVs, plug‑in hybrids and conventional hybrids are combined, electrified models accounted for about 67 % of all new registrations in December, up from 57.8 % a year earlier.
Brand performance
Volkswagen led the charge with a 10.2 % increase in EV registrations compared with December 2024, while Stellantis posted a 4.5 % rise. Tesla, however, saw a steep 20.2 % drop in its European deliveries. The biggest surprise came from Chinese newcomer BYD, whose registrations jumped a staggering 229.7 % over the same period.
Regulatory backdrop
The surge occurs as the European Union reviews several emission‑related policies, including a proposal to postpone the 2035 ban on internal‑combustion engine sales. Some member states and manufacturers have pushed back, citing market readiness and the growing competitive pressure from Chinese automakers.
What analysts say
Industry analysts agree that even if the EU eases certain emission standards, the trajectory for electric vehicles remains firmly upward. “Tightening CO₂ targets continue to compel manufacturers to accelerate electrification or face hefty fines,” one analyst noted.
With stricter CO₂ benchmarks and consumer demand shifting toward cleaner mobility, the momentum behind electric cars is expected to keep building throughout 2026 and beyond.
Source: Hồ Tân (Reuters)