EU Electric Vehicle Sales Reach Record High: Advocacy Group

Sales of battery-electric vehicles in the European Union reached a record high in 2026, according to a report by Transport & Environment (T&E). Between January and August, 1.64 million BEVs were sold, a 45 percent increase from the previous year, and they represented 22 percent of new-car sales over that period. The market share for BEVs continued to rise, reaching 28 percent in August.

• Battery-electric vehicle sales reached a record high in the EU in 2026.
• 1.64 million BEVs were sold between January and August 2026, a 45% increase year-on-year.
• BEVs accounted for 22% of new-car sales in the first eight months of 2026.
• BEV market share increased to 28% in August 2026.
• Factors contributing to the sales increase include more affordable models and higher petrol/diesel prices.