Hybrids surpassed petrol-powered vehicles in new car sales across the EU for the first time in September, according to industry data released on Tuesday, representing 32.8% of total sales, as reported by Europe's automotive industry association.

Overall car sales in the EU experienced a decline of 6.1% year-on-year, marking two consecutive months of decrease for the first time since July 2022. This downturn is attributed to stagnation in major markets such as Germany, France, and Italy, as noted by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).

SIGNIFICANCE

The rise in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) sales in the EU can be attributed to consumers viewing them as a cost-effective alternative between traditional combustion engines and fully electric vehicles.

Conversely, sales of fully electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles have slowed this year, partly due to varying green incentive policies across European nations, alongside stringent tariffs aimed at limiting the influx of inexpensive Chinese electric vehicles.

STATISTICS

Electrified vehicles, including BEV, PHEV, and HEV, constituted 56.9% of all new passenger car registrations in the EU in September, an increase from 50.3% the previous year.

Sales of battery electric cars rose by 9.8% year-on-year, although year-to-date sales have decreased by 5.8%.

Hybrid electric vehicle sales increased by 12.5% compared to the previous year, while petrol vehicle sales fell by 17.9%, resulting in a market share of 29.8% for petrol vehicles in September.

Volkswagen's registrations saw a slight increase of 0.3%, while Stellantis experienced a decline of 27.1% and Renault's registrations fell by 1.5%.

STATEMENTS

"Today's figures highlight that we are still far from achieving the robust EV market that Europe requires," stated ACEA Director General Sigrid de Vries.

"This does not reflect the consistent and dependable market growth necessary for a successful transition to green mobility."

BACKGROUND

Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Renault are among the European manufacturers facing challenges due to weak demand and competition from Chinese automakers.

Earlier this month, European Union member states voted narrowly in favor of imposing import tariffs of up to 45% on electric vehicles manufactured in China. This decision aims to address what Brussels perceives as unjust subsidies provided by Beijing to its domestic manufacturers. In response, Beijing has rejected the claims of unfair competition and has warned of potential retaliatory measures.