Europe remains the strongest major electric vehicle market, with the European Union selling nearly 3 million electric cars in 2025 and reaching a market share just under 27%, according to the IEA's Global EV Outlook 2026. Shares rose in 24 of the bloc's member states.
Germany, Europe's largest car market, recorded about 850,000 electric car sales in 2025, a 50% jump that lifted its market share to around 30%. In a notable policy reversal, Germany reintroduced consumer purchase subsidies from 1 January 2026, backed by a 3 billion euro (3.2 billion US dollar) budget, with the grant linked to household income and vehicle price.
France held a roughly 25% electric share, while the United Kingdom surpassed one third of new car sales, with BEV volumes near 500,000 and a 23% share. Norway remained the global benchmark at a 97% electric share.
The IEA notes that several major European countries have introduced or restored consumer-focused EV incentives over the past 18 months, helping to lower the upfront cost of electric cars and sustain strong demand.
