According to foreign media reports, market research firms have previously indicated that, driven by persistently high international oil prices, demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe has risen significantly. The region has emerged as a key engine for global EV sales growth, with domestically produced EVs—including those from China—being exported to Europe in large volumes and achieving substantial sales figures.

Latest reports from foreign media sources now confirm these earlier assessments; the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) has released vehicle registration data for the European market for April, validating the views previously expressed by market research institutions.

Data from the ACEA reveals that a total of 1,152,315 new vehicles were registered in April across European Union member states, the United Kingdom, and member nations of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA)—marking a 7% increase year-on-year.

Specifically regarding electric vehicles—a category encompassing battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and standard hybrid models—registrations surged by 21% year-on-year. These electrified vehicles now account for more than two-thirds of all new registrations, while the market share for gasoline-powered cars has dropped to 15%, and that for diesel cars has fallen to 17%. This rise in EV registrations has not only offset the decline in registrations for internal combustion engine vehicles but has also served as a driving force behind the overall increase in vehicle registrations.

Domestically produced vehicles have played a pivotal role in boosting European vehicle registrations; domestic automakers saw their market share in Europe increase in April. Notably, BYD recorded a 114.5% year-on-year surge in registrations, reaching a total of 27,008 units, while Chery saw its registrations soar by 322% compared to the previous year.

Tesla—a brand that previously enjoyed substantial sales in Europe but experienced a continuous year-on-year decline throughout last year—saw its registration figures continue their recovery in April. Registrations reached 10,654 units—a 46.5% increase year-on-year—marking the third consecutive month of recovery for the automaker.