Sales of electric cars continue to grow steadily, though the outlook has taken an unexpected turn: U.S. policies against this technology have led to several launches being canceled and sales slowing, while emerging markets are now pulling ahead, in addition to Europe.
With a war in progress that is making it prohibitive to own a gasoline-powered car, electric-vehicle sales have already reached four million units worldwide.
Europe Leads the Electric Car Market
According to the latest report from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, only in March were 1.75 million electric vehicles sold worldwide (a 66% increase compared to the previous month), which lifts electric vehicle sales in the first quarter of 2026 to 4 million. The Chinese New Year and record months in several European and Asian countries have contributed to these figures.
- Global: 4.0 million, -3%
- China: 1.9 million, -21%
- Europe: 1.2 million, +27%
- North America: 0.32 million, -27%
- Rest of the world: 0.6 million, +79%
Indeed, Europe has consolidated itself as the undisputed growth engine, recording its best month to date with more than half a million units sold thanks to subsidy programs and to the rise in gasoline prices. One of the clearest examples can be seen in France, where the surge in fuel prices has driven electric-vehicle sales up 69% year on year.
The major markets, such as the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Spain, delivered “exceptional” results, according to the research firm, while Chinese manufacturers are capturing an increasing share of electric-vehicle sales across the region.
However, the market remains 21% below year-to-date levels, as policy adjustments continue to limit domestic demand. The best example is the United States, where sales fell 27% in the first quarter of the year.
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