Story perspectives

Global EV Sales Dip 3% Despite March Surge

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Global EV sales totaled 4 million units in Q1 2026, down 3% from the prior year.
In March 2026, EV sales reached 1.75 million, a 66% increase from February.
Europe led growth with sales up 72% month-on-month and 37% year-on-year, driven by subsidies and rising fuel prices, and New Zealand and Australia posted strong gains in registrations, up 263% and 89%, respectively.
China remained the largest market but posted a 21% year-to-date drop, and North America declined 27%.

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Story summary

Global EV sales totaled 4 million units in Q1 2026, down 3% from the prior year.
In March 2026, EV sales reached 1.75 million, a 66% increase from February.
Europe led growth with sales up 72% month-on-month and 37% year-on-year, driven by subsidies and rising fuel prices, and New Zealand and Australia posted strong gains in registrations, up 263% and 89%, respectively.
China remained the largest market but posted a 21% year-to-date drop, and North America declined 27%.