European EV registrations jump 18.8% in early 2025 as gasoline car sales fall 23%. Discover the trends and what’s driving the change.
Electric‑vehicle (EV) registrations across the European Union are climbing rapidly, now rivaling new‑car sales for traditional gasoline models. With fuel prices at historic highs, the continent’s shift toward cleaner, battery‑powered transport is gathering momentum.
EV Share Hits 18.8% in Early 2025
Data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) shows that electric cars accounted for 18.8% of all new‑vehicle registrations in January‑February 2025, up from 15.2% at the same time last year. A total of 312,369 EVs were registered in the first two months, bolstered by strong growth in France (+38.5%) and Germany (+26.3%).
Key Drivers of the Surge
- More affordable models: Automakers are expanding their low‑price EV line‑ups, making battery cars accessible to a broader audience.
- National incentives: Subsidies, tax breaks and zero‑emission zones are encouraging buyers to go electric.
- Marketing focus on fuel savings: Brands such as MG (owned by China’s SAIC) are running campaigns that highlight the cost of gasoline versus electric driving.
Used‑EV Market Gains Traction
The second‑hand EV sector is also maturing. Greater model variety and standardized battery‑health certifications are easing consumer concerns about older electric cars, supporting sales even before the recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Mixed Results Across Nations
Not all European markets are moving at the same pace. The Netherlands saw a sharp 34.9% drop in EV registrations, while Belgium fell 11%. Conversely, Tesla’s registrations rose 11.8% YoY, ending a prolonged decline, though the brand still trails Chinese newcomer BYD, which doubled its market share in the same period.
Hybrid Vehicles Remain Popular
Hybrid powertrains continue to dominate, capturing 38.7%** of the market**. They outstrip pure‑gasoline models, which hold 22.5% of new registrations this year. In February alone, battery‑electric, plug‑in hybrid (PHEV) and conventional hybrid cars together accounted for **67%** of all registrations, up from 58.5% a year earlier.
Gasoline Cars in Decline
Sales of gasoline‑only vehicles are slipping, dropping **23.3% in February**. France experienced the steepest fall at **48.5%**, with Germany (-22.8%), Spain (-20.8%) and Italy (-18.6%) also seeing notable reductions. By the end of 2025, gasoline cars held 29% of the market, but current trends suggest EVs could overtake them within the next twelve months.
Plug‑In Hybrids Edge Forward
PHEVs now hold **9.8%** of the market, up from 7.4% in 2024, with 162,751 units sold in the first two months. Italy (+116.1%), Spain (+71.5%) and Germany (+23.8%) were the biggest contributors. Diesel models continue to fall, slipping to 8.1% market share—down 17.7%—while other vehicle types make up the remaining 2.2%.
As Europe pushes toward stricter emissions standards and consumers weigh fuel costs, the continent’s automotive landscape is poised for a decisive electric transformation.