Global electric vehicle (EV) sales saw a significant surge in May 2025, with a total of 1.6 million units sold, as reported by EV research firm Rho Motion. This brings the year-to-date total to 7.2 million EVs, marking a 28% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
China emerged as the standout performer, setting a new record by selling 1 million EVs in May alone. This represents a 33% year-over-year increase and a 10% rise compared to April. On the other hand, North America experienced slower growth, primarily due to reduced incentives in Canada.
According to Charles Lester from Rho Motion, the disparity between the Chinese and North American markets is striking, with China’s growth far outpacing that of North America.
In Europe, EV sales remained steady, with countries like Germany and the UK leading the way with a 27% year-to-date increase. Southern European countries such as Spain and Italy showed remarkable growth rates of 72% and 58% respectively. Germany’s introduction of new EV incentives targeted at commercial fleets is expected to boost sales in the region.
Conversely, North America saw sluggish growth, with the US, Canada, and Mexico collectively achieving only a 3% increase year-to-date. Canada’s suspension of EV subsidies resulted in a 20% decline in sales, while the US managed a 4% growth, supported by the federal EV tax credit.
China continued its dominance in the EV market, surpassing 1 million EVs sold in May and solidifying its position as a global powerhouse. Chinese automakers like BYD are expanding their presence in Europe with new electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The BYD Dolphin Surf, priced around $25,000, recently launched in Europe and is exempt from new EU tariffs on Chinese EVs.
As of May 2025, global EV sales figures stand at:
- Global: 7.2 million (+28%)
- China: 4.4 million (+33%)
- Europe: 1.6 million (+27%)
- North America: 0.7 million (+3%)
- Rest of World: 0.6 million (+36%)
Looking ahead, the US is expected to see a surge in EV sales towards the end of the year as buyers rush to take advantage of the federal EV tax credit before it phases out in 2027.
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