There has been a significant increase in global electric vehicle sales in the first five months of 2025. According to the latest published data, 1.6 million electric vehicles were sold worldwide in May. Total sales in the January-May period reached 7.2 million units, a 28 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

Global electric vehicle sales have increased significantly

China has the largest share in this growth. 1 million electric vehicles were sold in China in May. This number represents both a one-month sales record and a 33 percent increase compared to 2024.

There was a 10 percent increase compared to April. China’s dominance in the EV market is not limited to sales figures alone. Domestic manufacturers in the country, in particular, determine the direction of the market. Chinese manufacturer BYD continues to influence the domestic market and has also opened up to the European market.

The model, which the company sells in China under the name Seagull and is marketed in Europe under the name Dolphin Surf, has gone on sale in Europe with a starting price of approximately $25,000. The hybrid version of the vehicle is exempt from the new customs duties that the European Union has implemented for electric vehicles of Chinese origin. This has given manufacturers such as BYD an additional advantage in the market.

There is also an upward movement in the electric vehicle market in Europe. In the first five months, a total of 1.6 million units were sold, achieving a growth of 27 percent. Germany was at the top of the list with a 45 percent increase, followed by the United Kingdom with a 32 percent increase.

However, the most striking development came from southern Europe. Spain became the fastest growing market on the continent with a 72 percent increase compared to the previous year. Italy came in second with a 58 percent growth.

Despite this growth on a global scale, the North American market showed limited development. Only a 3 percent increase was recorded in the first five months of the year across the region. In Canada, the removal of some incentives caused a 20 percent drop in sales in the country. In the US, federal tax credits allowed for 4 percent growth.

Data from the first five months of 2025 show that electric vehicles are now at the center of the global automotive industry. What do you think about this? You can share your views with us in the comments section below.