Global EV sales hit 9.1 million in H1 2025 despite U.S. slowdown

Electric vehicle (EV) sales surged globally in the first half of 2025, reaching 9.1 million units, according to new data from Rho Motion, a Benchmark Mineral Intelligence company. That’s a 28% year-on-year increase, reinforcing the world’s shift toward clean mobility.

China remains the undisputed leader, accounting for 5.5 million EVs sold, more than 60% of the global total. This marks a 32% jump from the same period last year. Europe followed with 2 million EV sales, up 26%, while North America trailed at 0.9 million, rising just 3% amid policy setbacks and infrastructure gaps.

Emerging markets showed the highest growth, with a 40% year-on-year surge and 700,000 vehicles sold. These gains underscore a widening global embrace of electric transport, beyond traditional strongholds.

In June 2025 alone, EV sales grew 24% compared to June 2024 and 7% over May 2025. These gains came despite ongoing economic uncertainty and subsidy cuts in some key markets.

Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) drove much of this growth in Europe. Spain saw a dramatic 85% increase, spurred by government incentives. Germany and the UK posted strong gains of 40% and 32%, respectively. However, France saw sales fall 13%, largely due to reduced subsidies.

In contrast, North America’s progress was tepid. The U.S. saw only 6% growth, while Canada’s EV market shrank by 23%. Analysts attribute this to recent legislative changes, including the “Big Beautiful Bill,” which is set to cut off EV tax credits by September 2025.

“The U.S. risks falling behind,” said Charles Lester, Data Manager at Rho Motion. “Without supportive policies, American automakers could struggle to compete with their global counterparts. Meanwhile, China and Europe are charging ahead.”

Despite challenges, Rho Motion forecasts a strong second half of 2025, citing new EV models, improving battery supply chains, and continuing consumer interest as key growth drivers. With fresh funding expected in China and bold infrastructure investments in places like the UK, the EV story is far from over.

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