In May 2025, hybrid vehicles (HEV) were in the highest demand in the European Union market, accounting for 34% of all new passenger car sales. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), the demand for gasoline and diesel vehicles continues to decline, while alternative energy sources are showing significant growth.
This is reported by Finway
Sales Dynamics of Different Types of Cars
In May 2025, registrations of new hybrid cars in EU countries reached 315,597 units, which is a 16% increase compared to the same period last year. At the same time, sales of gasoline cars decreased to 263,953 vehicles (down 19%), and diesel cars fell to 85,698 units (down 28%).
The electric vehicle segment (BEV) also showed significant growth, reaching 142,776 registrations, which is 25% more than in May of last year. Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) demonstrated even higher dynamics: sales increased by 47%, reaching 87,301 vehicles. Additionally, other types of cars overall added 34%, totaling 31,257 registrations.
“The most popular vehicles in the European Union in May were hybrid cars (HEV), which accounted for 34% of sales.”
Overall Situation in the EU Automotive Market
In total, 926,582 new cars were sold in the EU markets in May 2025. This is a 1.6% increase compared to May 2024, indicating a gradual recovery in demand for new passenger cars in the region. Since the beginning of the year, the total number of registered new cars in EU countries has reached nearly 4.6 million units.
Analysts note that the shift in demand towards hybrid and electric models is a result of changes in consumer preferences, as well as the impact of environmental standards and the promotion of “green” mobility in the European market.