Global EV sales hit 1.8 million in June, led by China and Europe 

BEIJING: Global sales of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles rose by 24 per cent in June compared to the same month last year, driven mainly by strong demand in China and Europe, according to market research firm Rho Motion.

A total of 1.8 million EVs were sold worldwide during the month. China led the way with a 28 per cent year-on-year increase, reaching 1.11 million units. Europe followed with a 23 per cent rise, selling around 390,000 vehicles. However, sales in North America dropped 9 per cent to just over 140,000 units. 

The United States, in particular, saw a one per cent dip in EV sales. Rho Motion’s data manager, Charles Lester, attributed the decline to changes in tax credit policies under President Donald Trump’s recent spending bill, which ended incentives earlier than expected. He said this shift will likely weigh on EV demand in the US throughout 2025. 

Adding to the slowdown, Canada also saw weaker figures, pulling North America behind the “rest of the world” category for the first time. That category includes emerging markets in South and Central America and Southeast Asia, where sales jumped 43 per cent to surpass 140,000 units. 

A key concern for global automakers remains the 25 per cent import tariff imposed by the US, the world’s second-largest car market. As a result, several manufacturers have withdrawn their sales forecasts for next year. 

Meanwhile, Europe is expected to maintain its momentum, supported by new purchase incentives in major markets like Germany and Spain. The growing availability of low-cost electric cars is also likely to drive demand in the second half of 2025. 

Lester noted that European brands like Volkswagen and Renault remain strong in the small EV segment, but Chinese companies such as BYD are increasingly gaining market share, both in Europe and in fast-growing emerging markets. 

“There were reports of a possible slowdown in China earlier this year, as some local subsidies ran out,” Lester said. “But we expect more subsidies to be introduced in the second half, which should give sales a strong boost.” 

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