Global mobility in 2025: Records, shocks, and market shifts in the automotive sector

In 2025, global transportation and mobility hit a historic turning point. Electric vehicles (EVs) moved beyond a niche, autonomous tech gained traction, and logistics markets reached record valuations. Yet, trade tensions, mass layoffs, and vehicle recalls marked a turbulent “Great Realignment” for the industry.

Here are the top 10 numbers and figures that defined 2025:

1. 22.1 million: Global EV Sales

Global electric vehicle sales surpassed 22.1 million units, capturing 24% of the global light vehicle market. China led, with 51.6% of new cars sold as electric or plug-in hybrid. BYD emerged as the world’s top EV exporter.

“The market is no longer experimental,” said Ming Zhao, an analyst at Shanghai EV Research. “EVs are mainstream in Asia, while the West struggles with policy cliffs.” In the U.S., EV sales dropped 50% in October after federal tax credits expired, highlighting stark regional differences.

2. $11.23 trillion: Logistics market

AI-driven supply chains and e-commerce growth pushed global logistics to $11.23 trillion, with a 6.3% compound annual growth rate. Ocean freight remained dominant, handling 70% of cargo by volume despite air and rail advances.

3. 6,000+ Aircraft: Backlog and Deliveries

Airbus and Boeing delivered roughly 1,340 aircraft but global backlogs swelled to 16,000 planes, valued at over £260 billion in the UK alone. Analysts say this guarantees more than 15 years of work for manufacturers.

4. $204.46 billion: Autonomous vehicle market

Level 4 “Robotaxi” services expanded in Dallas, Abu Dhabi, and other cities, driving AV market growth to $204.46 billion. Experts see this sector as an emerging pillar of urban mobility.

5. 89.6 million: Total Global Vehicle Sales

All light vehicles, including ICE and EVs, reached 89.6 million units. Growth was modest (1.7%) and below pre-pandemic highs, reflecting high interest rates and cautious consumer spending.

6. $64.7 billion – Toyota’s brand value

Toyota reclaimed the top spot as the world’s most valuable automotive brand, up 23% to $64.7 billion. Its hybrid and “multi-pathway” strategy drove record sales.

7. $140.7 billion – Motorcycle market

Motorcycles and “power bikes” grew globally to $140.7 billion. Southeast Asia remains a stronghold, with over 80% of households owning motorcycles. The market is increasingly shifting toward electric two-wheelers for last-mile delivery.

8. 153 Horsepower: Harley-Davidson

Harley-Davidson launched its most powerful bike ever: a $110,000 factory custom with a 131 cubic-inch engine producing 153 hp. This reflects ongoing demand for high-performance internal combustion bikes.

9. 22,000 Jobs: Workforce Cuts

Transition to software-defined vehicles (SDVs) caused massive layoffs. Bosch cut 22,000 jobs, ZF 14,000, and General Motors over 3,000 in Detroit. Analysts warn of further Tier 3-4 supplier bankruptcies.

10. 152 Recalls: Safety and Reliability

2025 was the year of recalls, driven by software and battery issues. Ford led with 152 campaigns. Globally, millions of vehicles were recalled, including popular models in Nigeria, highlighting systemic safety challenges.

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