The European Union's car market has seen a 5.3% increase in new registrations between January and August 2026, according to data released by the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) on September 24. This growth is largely attributed to the rising popularity of electric vehicles. The ACEA reports that the market is undergoing a significant transformation in terms of vehicle types being registered.
Electric vehicles have reached a significant milestone, with 1,641,333 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) registered in the EU during the first eight months of 2026. This represents a substantial increase from the same period in 2025, when electric vehicles accounted for 15.8% of new registrations. As of 2026, electric vehicles now match gasoline-powered vehicles in terms of market share, both at 21.7%.
Several European countries have seen remarkable growth in electric vehicle registrations. France has experienced a 74.2% increase, while Germany has seen a 53.1% rise. Denmark and Belgium have also reported significant growth, with increases of 40.9% and 13.1%, respectively. These numbers indicate a clear shift towards electric mobility in the European market.
Despite the growth of electric vehicles, hybrid models remain the most popular type of vehicle in the European market. A total of 2,759,718 hybrid vehicles were registered between January and August 2026, accounting for 36.6% of the market. Spain and Italy have seen notable increases in hybrid vehicle registrations, with growth rates of 21% and 20.5%, respectively.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles have also continued to gain traction, with 758,082 units registered during the same period. This represents a 10% market share, up from 8.8% in 2025. Meanwhile, gasoline-powered vehicles have seen a decline in registrations, with a 18.6% decrease to 1,634,733 units. Their market share has dropped to 21.7%, down from 28% in 2025.
Diesel vehicles have also experienced a decline, with registrations decreasing by 18.6% and their market share dropping to 7.3%, down from 9.4% in 2025. As a result, gasoline and diesel vehicles now account for a combined 29% of new registrations in Europe, down from 37.5% in 2025. This trend suggests a continued shift away from traditional fuel types.
The key statistics from the ACEA report include a 5.3% increase in new vehicle registrations, with electric vehicles now accounting for 21.7% of the market. Hybrid vehicles remain the leading type, with a 36.6% market share, while plug-in hybrids have reached a 10% market share.
Key points
- Electric vehicles now match gasoline-powered vehicles in terms of market share, both at 21.7%.
- Hybrid vehicles remain the most popular type, accounting for 36.6% of new registrations.
- Gasoline and diesel vehicles now account for a combined 29% of new registrations, down from 37.5% in 2025.
