In the first quarter of 2025, global electric vehicle sales increased by 29% compared to last year, reaching 4.1 million units. While the 40% jump in March was particularly noteworthy in this growth, Rho Motion data showed that the worldwide trend is accelerating towards the transition to electric vehicles.

Global electric vehicle sales increased by 29 per cent

Although battery electric vehicle (BEV) and rechargeable hybrid (PHEV) sales increased across European countries, France was well outside this trend. Sales increased by 37 per cent in Germany and 64 per cent in Italy.

The UK set a record by selling more than 100,000 electric vehicles in March. In contrast, France saw an 18 per cent drop in overall sales and a 47 per cent drop in rechargeable hybrids due to the reduction in government incentives.

In the North American market, sales increased by 16 per cent. However, the overall situation remains uncertain due to trade policies. The large-scale import tariff introduced by the Donald Trump administration in March is expected to affect consumer behaviour in the US market by increasing the prices of vehicles from countries such as Japan, Korea and Mexico.

China still maintains its position as the largest electric vehicle market. In the first quarter, sales increased by 36 per cent to 2.4 million units. Nearly 1 million vehicles were sold in March, a level previously only seen in August 2024.

Charles Lester of Rho Motion stated that the global electric vehicle market has shown strong growth despite the fluctuations experienced this quarter. So what do you think about this issue? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.