Electric Cars Overtake Petrol Models for the First Time in the EU

Fully electric cars have overtaken petrol-only vehicles in monthly registrations across the European Union (EU) for the first time, signalling a significant milestone in the region’s shift towards cleaner transport.

According to new industry data, battery-powered cars accounted for 22.6% of registrations in December, narrowly surpassing petrol cars at 22.5%, while hybrid models maintained their position as the largest segment with 44%.

The development highlights a gradual yet steady move towards lower-emission motoring, even as EU policymakers consider softening proposed emissions rules that could allow combustion-engine vehicles to remain available for longer. Independent analyst Matthias Schmidt noted that part of the decline in petrol sales is due to more models being reclassified as “mild hybrids”, which still rely primarily on petrol engines but offer small efficiency improvements. He added that it may still take around five years before pure electric models decisively overtake combustion-engine cars across the continent.

Broader European market trends echoed this shift. Across the EU, the United Kingdom (UK) and Norway, car sales recorded their sixth consecutive month of year-on-year growth. Competition continues to intensify, particularly with the rise of Chinese manufacturers such as BYD, Changan and Geely, which are rapidly gaining market share even as established European brands like Volkswagen and BMW expand their electric vehicle ranges.

In December, the EU also revealed plans to revise its effective 2035 ban on new combustion-engine cars, following pressure from carmakers grappling with profitability challenges and rising competition from foreign rivals. Despite this, experts expect electric vehicles to continue increasing their share of the market. E-Mobility Europe’s Chris Heron said manufacturers are responding with more affordable EV models and that national incentive schemes are driving greater consumer engagement. He expressed confidence that sales will continue to grow into 2026.

Market performance varied significantly among major carmakers: Volkswagen and Stellantis saw notable gains, while Renault experienced a slight decline. Tesla’s registrations dropped sharply, whereas BYD surged, reflecting its expanding foothold in Europe. Overall, December saw strong increases in registrations of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles, which together made up two-thirds of the EU market.