Which vehicles triumphed at this year’s Residual Value Awards? Can European used-car markets improve in 2026? Are automotive industry supply chains starting to strain? Autovista24 editor Tom Geggus reviews the week’s headlines in The Automotive Update podcast.
In this episode, Autovista24 reveals the 2025 Residual Value Award winners. Then, as economic pressure builds, a new webinar explored the outlook for the European used-car market. Finally, a look at how concerns are building around semiconductor and rare earth metal supply chains.
The winners of the 2025 Residual Value Awards were announced this week. Champions of the eight categories were calculated using Autovista Group analysis and insights, powered by data from across 17 markets.
German premium brands performed especially well this year, with many marques from the country collecting awards.
BMW Group took home three titles, with two awarded to Mini models and one to a car from BMW. Mercedes-Benz celebrated two wins, while Audi and Porsche were victorious in one category each. The only non-German carmaker to enjoy success was Dacia.
The panel discussed Europe’s uncertain economic environment. Inflation is rising due to geopolitical tensions and conflicts, while the consumer price index is still increasing.
This environment has negatively impacted the automotive industry. Stagnating economies have triggered affordability issues and reduced investment. Ongoing tariff negotiations have also caused delays in investment and supply.
Meanwhile, a massive electric vehicle (EV) push is putting pressure on manufacturers to become more profitable.
Pressure on residual values (RVs), expressed as a percentage of the new-car list price (%RVs), are forecast to persist across Europe’s major used-car markets. In most of these locations, 36-month-old cars are expected to suffer up to a 1.5% fall in %RVs by the end of 2026.
However, these declines would represent a slowdown compared to this year, where %RVs have fallen at a sharper rate.
Passenger cars aged 36 months or older are expected to be affected more than younger vehicles. This matches 2025 trends, where market pressure on three-to-four-year-old models continued to build.
Looking at EV powertrains, the RVs of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) are still struggling. Meanwhile, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are performing much better.
European supply chain in crisis?
Automotive industry bodies have raised concerns over supply chains. ACEA highlighted the potential problems that could arise from an interruption of Nexperia semiconductor provisions. Without them, European vehicle suppliers could see production grind to a halt.
The industry has access to the same chips from other suppliers. However, homologating new suppliers for specific components and building up production could take several months, ACEA said. Current stocks of Nexperia chips are only expected to last for a few weeks.
Elsewhere, ANFIA flagged fears over rare earth metal exports from China, as reported by Reuters. The industry body said that restrictions on these materials could have a big impact on the European automotive industry.
As plug-in hybrid (PHEV) deliveries continue to soar, Tesla is quietly running away with Europe’s best-selling battery-electric vehicle (BEV) title. But is it too late for domestic rivals to catch up? Tom Hooker, Autovista24 journalist, analyses the data from EV Volumes.
The latest data from EV Volumes shows that the European PHEV market grew by 53.9% year on year in August. This equated to 82,308 new units featuring the technology hitting the roads.
This was an improvement on July’s result, which itself was the best volume improvement since June 2021. The result marked a sixth month of consecutive double-digit improvement, highlighting the powertrain’s growing appeal.
Meanwhile, 158,225 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) were delivered in the month. This equated to a 24.6% jump in sales, as its streak of double-digit increases extended. All-electric model deliveries have seen volume growth every month so far in 2025.
These unwavering performances meant BEVs saw a larger cumulative improvement than PHEVs between January and July. Yet, August proved to be a turning point. PHEV volumes rose by 28.3% in the first eight months of the year, with 789,268 units. Meanwhile, BEVs managed a 25.8% increase. However, it retained the greater volume, with 1,544,223 deliveries in the period.
Combining the two powertrains, electric vehicle (EV) deliveries soared by 33.3% in August, to 240,533 units. In the first eight months of the year, 2,333,491 new EVs took to European roads, marking a 26.7% increase.
BEVs continued to make up the majority of EV deliveries, but their grip loosened slightly compared to one year prior. The technology accounted for 65.8% of overall EV deliveries in August, down 4.6 percentage points (pp) compared to August 2024. The smaller drop occurred in the cumulative figures, with its share dropping from 66.6% to 66.2%.
Tesla extends lead
This year has been a rollercoaster for the Tesla Model Y. Looking at Europe’s BEV best-sellers table, the crossover has either finished first or ninth since February.
This can be partially explained by its quarterly delivery cycle. The model’s two highest volume months came in March and June. However, at the start of the following quarter, the BEV dropped down the table. It then gained momentum again in the following month. The Model Y continued this trend by topping the table in August, after a disappointing July.
The crossover recorded 8,451 sales to take its fifth win of the year, 2,191 units ahead of its nearest competitor. However, it was not all good news for the Tesla Model Y. Its volumes dropped by 37.3% compared to one year prior. In turn, its market share halved compared with August 2024, down to 5.3%.
Skoda Elroq remains popular
July’s best-selling BEV, the Skoda Elroq, secured second in its 10th month of sales. The model’s 6,260 delivery total translated to a 4% market share. After entering the top 10 for the first time in April, it has only placed in the first three positions.
Behind was the Tesla Model 3, making its fourth top-three appearance in 2025. Its deliveries rose by 9.9% to 6,177 units. The sedan captured 3.9% of BEV volumes, down 0.5pp year on year. The US model has also had a rollercoaster ride across the first eight months of 2025. It has only placed in the top 10 on four occasions.
Volkswagen’s (VW) ID.3 finished fourth, with 5,554 units, up 58.8% compared to August 2024. The hatchback has maintained consistent deliveries throughout 2025, with monthly volumes ranging between 5,399 units and 6,932 units. However, its positions have been mixed.
BMW’s good form continues
After enjoying a year-best result of fourth in July, the BMW iX1 continued to prove a popular choice, placing fifth in August. The SUV recorded 4,966 sales, up 33% compared with 12 months ago. The model saw its share grow from 2.9% to 3.1%.
In the shadow of its younger sibling, the Skoda Enyaq took sixth. It sat just 15 units behind the BMW iX1 with 4,951 deliveries. This represented a decline of 20.4% year on year and was its lowest volume month of 2025 so far. Its share subsequently fell by 1.8pp to 3.1%.
Conversely, the VW ID.4 in seventh saw deliveries grow by 18.3%. However, its 4,786-unit total was also the crossover’s lowest monthly volume of 2025. Due to increased competition, its market share also dropped by 0.2pp to 3%.
In eighth place, with a combined total of 4,678 units, was the Renault 5 and Alpine A290. This equated to a market share of 3%. The Kia EV3 placed ninth, with 4,253 units in its 11th month on the market. The model accounted for 2.7% of overall BEV volumes. Apart from June, it has featured in every monthly top 10 table so far this year.
The VW ID.7 took 10th, its lowest finishing position across the first eight months of 2025. It also recorded its lowest monthly delivery figure of the year, with 4,131 units. Yet, this was still a considerable improvement from 12 months prior, equating to a 46.6% uptick in sales. The ID.7 made up 2.6% of the market, up 0.4pp.
Can Tesla hold on?
After its victory in August, the Tesla Model Y extended its lead in the yearly chart. It looks set to become Europe’s best-selling BEV this year.
The crossover has seen 83,194 deliveries across the first eight months of the year. A gap of 32,569 units now separates it from its nearest competitor, as it claims a market share of 5.4%. It seems highly unlikely that the Tesla Model Y could be caught by the end of the year.
The model’s closest rivals have struggled to cross the 10,000-unit threshold in any month this year. The only other BEV to achieve this feat is the Tesla Model 3.
In the Model Y’s lowest volume month in April, it still managed 4,568 deliveries. If the crossover were to replicate this result until December, its competitors would still need a significant increase in volumes to mount a challenge.
Seven-way BEV battle
The battle for second remains hotly contested, with 8,320 units separating the runner-up spot from 10th place. The VW ID.4 held second, with 50,625 deliveries and a 3.3 % market share.
Its sibling, the ID.3, sat just 682 units behind. It moved up one place from July’s cumulative standings, with 49,943 sales. The hatchback, as well as the next four positions, all held a 3.2% share of BEV volumes at the end of August.
The Skoda Enyaq remained in fourth with 49,748 units, while the combined total of the Renault 5 and Alpine A290 fell two spots to fifth with 49,554 deliveries.
The Tesla Model 3 moved up from seventh in July, recording 49,524 deliveries across the first eight months of 2025. This is a promising move ahead of another quarterly-reporting period.
Another BEV that made ground was the Skoda Elroq. Thanks to another strong month, the SUV moved up one place, posting 48,678 units. This came at the expense of the VW ID.7, after a disappointing August. Its total of 47,693 deliveries translated to a 3.1% market share.
The Kia EV3 came ninth, accounting for 2.9% of overall BEV volumes with 44,560 sales. The BMW iX1 closed out the top 10, posting 42,305 deliveries and a 2.7% share.
Three in a row for VW
In Europe’s PHEV market, the VW Tiguan has now recorded three monthly victories in a row. This follows its first ascent to the top in June. August, however, was its most emphatic victory.
The SUV’s 4,010-unit total represented a 275.5% year on year increase. Its share also soared from a 2% share to 4.9%.
The Tiguan led its nearest competitor, the Volvo XC60, by 667 deliveries. The second-place SUV achieved a 27.7% improvement in volumes during August, with 3,343 units. However, as the PHEV market has become even more crowded, the XC60 saw its share drop by 0.8pp to 4.1%.
Third went to the BYD Seal U, with 3,253 units. The PHEV continues to impress, after a slow start to deliveries in 2024. It took a 4% market share, up 3.5pp year on year. The Ford Kuga finished fourth, replicating its July result. It posted 3,195 sales, up 11.1% on August 2024. However, the model’s market share fell from 5.4% to 3.9%.
MG deliveries surge
In fifth was the MG eHS, repeating its best finish of the year in July. The SUV’s 2,943-unit total represented an 819.7% surge in deliveries. Consequently, it captured 3.6% of overall volumes, up 3pp from 12 months prior.
The BMW X1 trailed the MG eHS by just 14 units in sixth. It recorded 2,929 deliveries, equating to a 2.4% growth year on year. Yet, its market share dropped by 1.7pp to 3.6%.
The Toyota RAV4 followed in seventh, thanks to 2,811 deliveries in August. This marked a surge of 160.5% compared to one year prior. It made up 3.4% of the PHEV total, up from 2%.
Eighth went to the Mercedes-Benz GLC, its lowest finishing position since March. Its deliveries fell by 5% compared to August 2024, with 2,577 units. Meanwhile, the model’s market share dropped by 2pp to 3.1%.
The BMW X3 made its first monthly top 10 appearance this year in ninth. This was thanks to 2,318 sales, a significant improvement of 318.4%. Unsurprisingly, its market share grew by 1.8pp to 2.8%.
Rounding out the top 10 in August was the Hyundai Tucson, its fourth foray into the table in the first eight months of 2025. The PHEV posted 2,176 deliveries, denoting a 68.6% uptick in volumes. This translated to a 2.6% market share, up by 0.2pp compared to 12 months prior.
Interestingly, all these models fit into the C and D-Segment SUV category, compared to six SUVs in the BEV top 10. However, these models could face restrictions in cities such as Cardiff in the future. Higher parking charges may be applied to vehicles over a certain weight, as reported by the BBC.
Tiguan inches ahead
Europe’s PHEV market continued to be dominated by three SUVs. The VW Tiguan, Volvo XC60 and BYD Seal U have placed in the top three every month since April. A total of 3,251 units separate the models, meaning changes could occur by the end of the year.
The VW Tiguan continued to lead the pack, with 38,962 units from January to August and 4.9% market share. It has been a consistent performer, with a worst finish of fourth in March.
Volvo’s XC60 has been even more consistent in second, with no finish outside the top three in any month of 2025. It posted 36,757 units after eight months of the year, equating to a 4.7% share.
Chasing both SUVs down is the BYD Seal U, even after a slow start to the year. However, it has remained inside the top three since March. The PHEV recorded 35,711 units between January and August, capturing 4.5% of overall volumes.
Ford falls out of touch
Once in the hunt for the lead, the Ford Kuga now appears out of touch, thanks to average performances in April, May and June. The SUV’s 30,203-unit total gave it a 3.8% share, placing it in fourth. Behind was the BMW X1, representing 3.4% of overall PHEV figures with 26,863 units.
In sixth was the Toyota C-HR, thanks to 23,580 deliveries and a 3% share. The Mercedes-Benz GLC accounted for 2.8% of total volumes in seventh, posting 21,748 deliveries. Then came the MG eHS, just 144 units behind. The PHEV saw 21,604 models handed over to customers in the first eight months of the year, giving it a 2.7% share.
Cupra’s Formentor remained in ninth, with 19,673 sales and a 2.5% market share. The BMW 5-Series captured 2.4% of PHEV volumes in 10th, posting 18,840 units.
Battery-electric vehicle (BEV) incentives in France seem to be helping the country’s overall new-car market. However, while these registrations bounce back, petrol volumes continue to plummet. Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry examines the figures.
Following its first positive result of the year in August, the French new-car market managed another improvement in September.
According to Autovista24 calculations of data published by PFA, the market saw year-on-year growth of 0.8% last month. This equates to 140,100 models taking to the country’s roads, up by 1,098 units.
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September 2025 featured one more working day compared to the same month last year. This helped the new-car market continue its growth streak. According to PFA, adjusted for working days, registrations would have dipped by 3.6%.
The result means that the year-to-date deficit the French new-car market has built up across 2025 has lessened. Between January and September, 1,186,521 units have been delivered to customers, a drop of 6.3%, based on Autovista24 calculations.
Hope ahead?
With a new BEV incentive programme in place, and additional financial boosts starting at the end of September and early October, the country could see this growth streak continue. However, electrified vehicle results must stay strong to offset the ongoing sharp decline in internal-combustion engine (ICE) registrations.
The market share of petrol registrations in September hit a new low, continuing a trend that is shared across Europe. Once the dominant force, petrol has struggled to gain traction this year, with heavy losses each month of 2025.
‘The new electric bonus formula (CEE bonus) for individuals is already showing positive results, with an additional bonus of €1,000 being awarded from 1 October for models assembled in the EU and equipped with a battery manufactured in the European Economic Area,’ commented Marie-Laure Nivot, head of automotive market analysis at AAA Data.
‘The start of electric leasing on 30 September should also give a temporary boost to electric registrations. However, it is now fleets that are driving electric registrations, with major effects expected within three years on the used-car market,’ she added.
BEV registrations bounce
BEVs continued their strong run in September. Registrations were up 11.2% in the month. In total, 31,439 units were delivered, according to Autovista24 calculations.
The result led to a record market share for the technology. BEVs held 22.4% of the total market volume in the month, up by 2.1 percentage points (pp) compared to September 2024.
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This was the third consecutive month of double-digit improvement. Furthermore, it was only the fourth time in 2025 that all-electric powertrains registered a year-on-year upswing. This means that the year-to-date figures continued to claw back the deficit built up earlier in the year.
Between January and September, 216,311 BEVs were registered, a 0.2% decline, equating to just 530 fewer models. Despite this slight drop, the powertrain’s market share improved thanks to the misfortune of others. The technology held 18.2% of the total year-to-date volume at the end of the month, up 1.1pp.
Further incentives
The BEV market could look forward to further growth in the coming months. From 30 September, applications opened for the country’s social leasing plan. This is a long-term rental offer for electric cars with a cap of €200 per month. After three years, drivers must return the vehicle or pay the remaining cost based on its residual value.
The leasing plan is open to a minimum of 50,000 households in France. To be eligible, they must have a reference tax income per share of €16,300 or less. Applicants must also live more than 15km from their place of work. They must also use a personal car to commute, or conduct business travel of more than 8,000km annually.
In addition, the French government also announced a new addition to the country’s incentive plan. An extra €1,000 will be provided on top of the existing energy savings certificates (CEE) subsidies for a BEV. However, it must have been assembled in Europe. These models must also come equipped with a European-built battery.
‘The ecological transition is a lever for reindustrialisation. With this €1,000 increase in the ecological bonus, we are promoting electric vehicles whose batteries are produced in Europe and whose manufacturing emits fewer greenhouse gases,’ stated Agnès Pannier-Runacher, minister for Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forests, the Sea and Fisheries.
‘It is a win-win measure for purchasing power, the climate and industry. It makes electric cars more accessible to French people, while supporting industry and employment,’ she added.
PHEV slump continues
While BEVs have enjoyed a boost, plug-in-hybrids (PHEVs) continued their slump in September. A total of 9,118 units were delivered, a drop of 9.5% year on year, based on Autovista24 analysis. This gave the technology a market share of 6.5%, down 0.8pp.
Following a run of double-digit declines across the first six months of the year, the third quarter saw some improvement. However, September’s result was the third-lowest drop in registration volume. This left PHEVs with a 26.8% fall in the year to date, as 72,537 models made their way to customers. The volume share of 6.1% underlines a 1.7pp drop against the first nine months of 2024.
Combining BEVs and PHEVs, the electric vehicle (EV) market improved by 5.8% in September, with 2,212 more models registered. The 40,557 registrations gave the technology a 28.9% market share, up 1.3pp. The result is the third time this year EVs have seen growth, and it is thanks to the BEV market.
In the first three quarters of 2025, EV deliveries were down 8.6%, with 27,099 fewer units on the road. However, their market share has only dropped 0.7pp in this period as 288,848 models reached customers.
Dominance from hybrids
The hybrid market, made up of both full and mild hybrid powertrains, led the way once again in France.
In total, 62,039 hybrids were registered in September, a 16.7% increase year on year, according to Autovista24 calculations. This gave the powertrain a commanding 44.3% market share in the month, up 6.1pp.
Spanning the first three quarters of 2025, hybrids prevailed as the dominant powertrain. In total, 531,166 units were delivered to customers, a rise of 28.7% compared to the same period in 2024. This was a 44.8% hold of total registration volume between January and September, up 12.2pp.
Combining EVs and hybrids, electrified powertrains saw growth of 12.1% in September, reaching 102,596 registrations. This meant 11,084 more electrified units taking to French roads. Their market share in this period was 73.2%, up 7.4pp, aided by hybrid and BEV totals.
In the year to date, electrified cars saw deliveries increase 12.5%, equating to 91,366 more units to 820,014 registrations. Their dominant share of 69.1% in the nine-month period was up by 11.5pp.
New low for ICE
Petrol registrations dropped to a record low in September. A total of 26,934 units were registered, according to Autovista24 calculations. This equated to a drop of 25.3% year on year. This was the smallest loss of volume so far in 2025. However, the powertrain’s market share of 19.2% is a new low, dipping below 20% for the first time.
The fuel type has been rapidly losing its share across 2025, after hitting 26.1% in January. Its performance in September marks the first time this year it has dropped to the third-best powertrain, after hybrids and BEVs.
This means that in the first nine months of 2025, petrol registrations declined by 32.8%, with 265,023 units delivered. This equates to 129,243 fewer units year on year. The 22.3% market share in this period was down 8.8pp.
Meanwhile, diesel deliveries in September declined 21.7%, with 6,311 units taking to French roads. This was a 4.5% hold of the overall registration volume, a drop of 1.3pp.
Between January and September, diesel saw a slide of 38.5%, with 58,906 models received by customers. They held a 5% share at the end of this period, a drop of 2.6pp.
Combining petrol and diesel figures, the ICE market dropped behind the EV sector for the second consecutive month. Registrations were down 24.6%, while market share dropped 8pp, to 23.7%.
With BEV deliveries expected to increase thanks to subsidies, this is a trend that could continue for the rest of the year. This would signal a significant shift in the French new-car market.
Between January and September, ICE registrations fell by 33.9%, with 166,314 fewer units delivered. This also meant an 11.4pp drop in market share, with 27.3% of the market, still ahead of EVs for now.
How have plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales fared in China? Is it too early to celebrate EU registrations growth? Plus, updates following the cyber-attack on JLR. Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry examines the latest news in the Automotive Update podcast.
In this week’s episode, a look at China’s faltering PHEV registrations, as well as Europe’s booming electric vehicle (EV) sector. Additionally, an assessment of what a positive August meant for the EU new-car market, and what lies ahead for the cyber-attack-hit JLR and its suppliers?
China’s PHEV market suffered its worst year-on-year performance since June 2020. The latest data provided by EV Volumes showed powertrain sales grew by just 3.2%, compared with July 2024. This is the worst result since a 51.4% decline during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For the first time this year, the BYD Seal 06 topped the monthly PHEV chart. In second place was the Aito M8. The model first saw sales recorded in China in April.
Meanwhile, the country’s battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sector recorded an improvement compared to July 2024, with an increase of 34.5%. The Geely Geome Xingyuan remained the standout BEV performer. It topped the chart once again by a considerable margin over the second-placed Tesla Model Y.
Europe’s EV market upswing
Europe’s PHEV market recorded its biggest monthly growth since June 2021, according to EV Volumes. Totals soared by 53.5% year-on-year in July. The performance continued a run of double-digit PHEV improvements that began in March, following two consecutive monthly declines.
BEVs continued their consistent improvement, with double-digit increases every month so far this year. Compared to 12 months prior, all-electric deliveries rose by 33% in July.
In the PHEV sector, Volkswagen (VW) led the way with the Tiguan topping the chart in July, for the second consecutive month. Second was the BYD Seal U, which has remained inside the top three since March.
The Skoda Elroq led Europe’s BEV market for the second time this year. The Czech marque locked out the top two positions, with the Enyaq in second.
Further growth for EU new-car market
EU new-car registrations rose 5.3% in August to 677,785 units, marking a second straight month of growth, according to the latest data from ACEA. However, year-to-date volumes remain down 0.1%, with 7,168,847 cars registered so far in 2025.
Of the larger markets, Spain continued to shine with a 17.2% gain, while Germany and France recorded single-digit improvements. Sales in Italy slipped by 2.7%, and despite positive returns in August, while France remains more than 7% behind on a year-to-date basis. Electrification drove much of August’s momentum, as electrified vehicles captured more than 62.2% of the market. Petrol and diesel registrations continued to fall.
Despite positive signs, industry group ACEA warns that EV uptake is still ‘below the pace needed’ to meet EU climate goals, making any celebrations premature.
JLR’s cyber-attack pain continues
Following a cyber-attack at the beginning of September, JLR has stated that it will continue its production pause until at least 1 October, according to Autocar.
The attack forced the carmaker to shut down its internal computer systems, resulting in production at all its global plants coming to a halt. This has also created issues with parts ordering, impacting suppliers and retailers.
According to the BBC, the stoppage is costing JLR around £50 million (€57.2 million) each week, and the UK government are considering financial support for impacted suppliers.
Yangwang’s new speed record
Yangwang, the luxury sub-brand of BYD, has set a new global production-car top-speed record of 496.2kph (308.4mph). The feat was achieved with Yangwang’s latest U9 Xtreme, an electric-powered hypercar.
‘This record was only possible because the U9 Xtreme simply has incredible performance,’ stated driver Marc Basseng. ‘Technically, something like this is not possible with a combustion engine.’
August saw a second consecutive month of growth for the EU new-car market, accompanied by a boost for battery-electric vehicle (BEV) registrations. However, looking at the bigger picture, is any cause for celebration premature? Autovista24 web editor James Roberts investigates the data.
A total of 677,785 new cars were delivered across the EU in August, according to the latest figures from ACEA. This equalled a 5.3% year-on-year increase for the region, and a second consecutive month of year-on-year growth, bolstered by 34,391 additional units.
However, spanning the first eight months of the 2025, year-on-year EU new-car registrations are down 0.1%. Between January and August, 7,168,847 new vehicles took to the bloc’s roads, a unit slide of 10,421 compared with the same period in 2024.
Of the 27 EU nations, 19 recorded growth. Amongst the major markets, Spain continued its upward trajectory in 2025. It registered a 17.2% year-on-year upswing, with 61,313 new vehicles reaching customers.
Germany saw a healthy 5% increase in August, whilst France, buoyed by new electric vehicle (EV) incentives, returned to growth with a 2.2% improvement in the month. However, consistent negative returns across the year-to-date meant that the French market remained 7.1% down on 2024 totals.
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Despite notable increases in year-on-year registrations of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), Italy saw a 2.7% slip in August. More generally, falling demand means that, as of the end of August, Italian new-car registrations are down 3.7% on 2024 totals.
Austria enjoyed a strong month with 21,452 new cars taking to the nation’s roads. This equated to a 25.3% increase, helping shore up a 10.7% gain in the year to date, largely propelled by electric vehicle (EV) demand.
For a second consecutive month, a Baltic state accounted for the largest percentage gain. This time, Lithuania saw a 52.4% surge in sales. Conversely, neighbouring Estonia continued in the doldrums with a 41.6% fall.
EU BEV bounce
August saw 120,797 new BEVs take to the EU’s roads, a 30.2% gain on a low baseline of 12 months previous. This in turn gave the powertrain a 17.8% monthly market share, a year-on-year upswing of 3.4 percentage points (pp).
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Significantly, August’s gains underlined BEV’s largest monthly share of the overall EU market this year. This was, however, achieved with the fourth lowest absolute volume of the year to date.
Between January and August, BEV deliveries reached 1,132,603 across the EU, a 24.8% jump on the same period 12 months prior.
Relatively strong BEV performances in major EU markets helped drive uptake. Spain saw significant year-on-year gains with 7,032 new BEV units underlining a 160.8% year-on-year rise. Across the first eight months of 2025, BEV registrations in Spain are up an impressive 95%.
Government incentives, such as the MOVES III program, have been a major driver for the BEV adoption. First introduced in April 2021 and extended most recently in April 2025, this scheme has fuelled a significant surge in electrified vehicle sales.
Germany again accounted for the largest absolute BEV sales total in August, hitting 39,367. This amounted to a 45.7% year-on-year increase. Italy also registered impressive BEV growth at 27.3%. However, complexities within the domestic framework, including uncertainty over proposed incentives, are hindering further growth.
Significantly, France recorded BEV growth of 29.3% in August. However, the complex BEV landscape remains a drag on the overall market picture, and spanning the first eight months of 2025, it is down 2% year-on-year
Poland and Bulgaria’s BEV upswing
For a second consecutive month, Poland proved a breakout BEV adopter. Following on from triple-digit gains in July, the country saw 3,306 new BEVs leave dealerships. This was a 237.7% year-on-year increase.
BEV sales in the country have been aided by fresh state support measures. This includes the NaszEauto programme, which provides sizeable grants. Benefits such as scrappage rewards for retiring older internal-combustion engine (ICE) cars, and relief from certain vehicle taxes, are designed to make the switch appealing. These policies are laying the groundwork for sustained expansion of Poland’s EV market.
Bulgaria provided an intriguing market of contrasts in August. The country saw a significant percentage increase in BEV registrations, up 124.1% year on year, from 83 to 186.
Despite its small segment status, there are concrete reasons for the emerging trend. Across the first eight months of 2025, Bulgaria’s BEV uptake has increased 45.7% year on year from 993 units to 1,447.
Conversely, Bulgaria proved just one of five EU nations to see an increase in new petrol registrations in August, with a 21.6% year-on-year rise. Only six other nations registered an improved demand for new diesel vehicles.
BEVs are fully exempt from vehicle registration tax in Bulgaria, as well as ownership tax. On top of this, a five-year plan was announced in 2022 to upgrade the nation’s EV charging infrastructure. This involves the installation of 10,000 charging points, which could be a catalyst for further growth.
PHEV paradox
In August, the EU saw 70,545 PHEVs take to the region’s roads. This gave the powertrain a 54.5% year-on-year increase, capping an upturn in popularity established from March onwards.
August’s volume helped ensure a monthly market share of 10.4%, the highest of 2025 by 0.4pp. This, however, was achieved with the fifth lowest monthly sales total of the year.
Across the first eight months of 2025, PHEV totals hit 631,83 units, establishing a 27.2% year-on-year gain. This helped facilitate a market share of 8.8%, a year-on-year increase of 1.9pp. While this marks a high watermark for the year, it is just 1.4pp up from January’s figure of 7.4%.
In August, the EU’s major markets all stood out as popular places for PHEVs. Germany accounted for 23,973 newly registered vehicles, a year-on-year increase of 76.7%. Once again, Spain led the way with a 162.7% surge, whilst Italy saw a 94.7% boost.
However, France saw negative returns in the plug-in arena. PHEV deliveries amounted to 5,855 units, down 5% year on year. Across the EU’s biggest four markets, the country is the only one trending negatively in terms of PHEV registrations.
Belgium also saw a notable reduction in PHEV demand during August. Following a 9.4% year-on-year decline in BEV registrations, PHEVs dropped 22.4%, from 3,699 units to 2,870 registrations. This reflected a wider annual slump, which saw the Belgian new-car market fall 11% compared with the first eight months of 2024.
New plug-in market share high not enough
EV registrations, consisting of BEVs and PHEVs, carved out a monthly market share high of 28.2% in August. A combined weight of 191,342 deliveries helped ensure this, however despite the second lowest total volume of the year.
Therefore, the apparent high point is tempered by a wider state of inertia. Between January and August, total EU plug-in registrations accounted for a 24.6% market share. Since January’s 22.3% figure, this has only increased 2.3pp. Furthermore, this share is eclipsed by both ICE registrations and total electrified vehicle figures, which include BEV, PHEV, and hybrid powertrains.
Hybrids remain a winning compromise
Hybrids, including both mild and full versions, remained the EU’s most popular choice in August. The powertrain held the highest market share of 33.9%, with a 229,970-unit volume.
This trend is reflected across the first eight months of the year. Hybrid registrations amounted to 2,485,096 units, ensuring a 34.7% market share. This marks a 5pp upswing compared with 12 months prior.
More generally, hybrid popularity is driving the electrified market share in the EU. Adding the powertrain to BEV and PHEV registrations established a 62.2% hold of total new-car deliveries in August. This is a notable 5pp gain on January’s figure.
As of August, electrified powertrains command 59.3% of total delivery volumes in the EU. This is the highest of 2025, as well as 10.1pp up on 2024 totals.
In August, hybrids enjoyed year-on-year increases in most of the 27 EU member states. Only Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Ireland and the Netherlands recorded declines. The most significant fall came in the small volume market of Estonia at 45%, which witnessed declines across all powertrains.
The most notable adoption of hybrid power came in Romania during August. The nation saw a 72.7% year-on-year swing upwards. This crowns a 22.5% increase across the first eight months of the year, in the form of 48,288 vehicles.
Petrol and diesel down but not out
Combined petrol and diesel registrations continued to decline in the EU during August. However, the month’s 16.6% fall proved to be the second lowest after July’s 12.9% slide.
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Both petrol and diesel succumbed to consistent double-digit drops in sales during August. Despite this, petrol clung on to the second highest powertrain share in the EU after hybrids, at 26.3%, down 6.7pp. And between January and August, petrol commanded a 28.1% market share, a drop of 6.8pp.
ICE registrations, encompassing petrol and diesel, saw a 21.3% fall across the first eight months of the year. Crucially, despite consistent and notable declines, the powertrain retained a 37.5% hold on the market. This was 21.8pp above combined electrified powertrains, and remained 12.9pp above plug-in registrations.
As long as new ICE models remain a popular new-car option, wider EU emissions targets will prove difficult to hit. This poses a concern for ACEA who stated that BEV uptake is ‘still below the pace needed at this stage of the transition.’
As deliveries of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) surge in July, the Skoda Elroq led Europe’s all-electric market. Meanwhile, the battle at the top of the PHEV standings intensified. Autovista24 journalist Tom Hooker breaks down the figures from EV Volumes.
Europe’s PHEV market recorded its biggest monthly growth since June 2021, according to EV Volumes. Totals soared by 53.5% year-on-year in July, with 112,612 units hitting the roads. The performance continues a run of double-digit PHEV improvements that began in March, following two monthly declines.
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BEVs did not manage the same level of growth. However, they have been more consistent, with double-digit increases every month so far this year. Compared to 12 months prior, all-electric deliveries rose by 33% in July, with 186,682 units. This was the biggest BEV improvement since January.
BEVs were also the fastest-growing electric vehicle (EV) technology across the first seven months of the year. However, the gap closed considerably in July.
There were a total of 1,389,238 all-electric registrations from January to July, equating to a year-on-year improvement of 26.1%. Meanwhile, PHEV sales increased by 25.8% with 707,076 units.
Skoda’s BEV success
The Skoda Elroq led Europe’s BEV market for the second time this year. The model only began deliveries in November 2024 and first exceeded 1,000 monthly registrations in February 2025.
The C-Segment SUV posted 8,680 registrations in July, giving it a market share of 4.6%. Since April, the last time it took the best-selling BEV mantle, the Elroq has not finished outside of the top three.
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The Czech model was ahead of its closest competitor and stablemate, the Skoda Enyaq, by 1,733 units. Its 6,947-unit total was an improvement of 47.3% year on year. The D-Segment SUV captured 3.7% of overall BEV volumes, up by 0.3 percentage points (pp) compared to one year prior.
After leading the market in January, the Enyaq’s sales pace may have been somewhat cannibalised by the Elroq. Further pressure on the SUV volumes may come in 2026, with the planned production of the Skoda Epiq, a city SUV.
What is in a name?
Volkswagen (VW) rounded out the top three with ID.3. Totalling 6,415 sales, this nearly doubled its total from July 2024, with an uptick of 91.7%. In turn, its market hold rose by 1pp to 3.4%.
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VW recently announced a new naming strategy, opting for names instead of numbers to differentiate between its EV models. However, next year’s updated ID.3 will not receive the ‘Golf’ badge, according to Autocar.
Just two units behind in fourth was the BMW iX1, its best finishing position so far this year. The C-Segment SUV scored 6,413 sales in July, an increase of 43.1% from 12 months ago. The figure was also the BEV’s highest delivery total since December 2023. It represented 3.4% of the market, up from 3.2%.
The premium model will soon face strong internal competition, as the BMW iX3 is set to enter production in October. The iX3, which was unveiled at IAA Mobility, will be the first model to use BMW’s Neue Klasse platform. This provides the SUV with an improved powertrain and upgraded technology.
Next up was the combined total of the Renault 5 and the Alpine A290. The duo recorded 6,259 registrations in July, taking a 3.4% share. This time last year, the two hatchbacks were beginning a delivery ramp-up in Europe.
BEVs face internal competition
The VW ID.4 secured sixth, with 6,150 sales, an improvement of 16.7% year on year. This was 797 units behind fellow-VW Group offering, the Skoda Enyaq. The model made up 3.3% of the BEV total. However, due to increased market competition, this was a drop of 0.5pp on July 2024.
Behind was the Kia EV3. The Korean SUV posted 5,643 units in its 10th month of European deliveries. This translated to a 3% market share. The model could face additional sales pressure from its EV2 sibling, which is set for production next year.
VW’s ID.7 landed in eighth, which saw its volumes surge 157.4% compared to one year prior, with 5,625 registrations. In turn, its market hold rose by 1.4pp to 3%.
The Tesla Model Y came ninth, its joint lowest finishing position so far in 2025. This came after leading the market in June and May, clearly showing the crossover’s quarterly delivery pattern. Its total of 5,559 sales equated to a drop of 43.1% year on year. The Model Y represented 3% of the market, down from 7%.
The Audi Q4 e-tron completed July’s BEV top 10, with 4,642 sales. This equated to a decline of 15.3% compared to one year ago. In turn, its market share fell from 3.9% to 2.5%.
PHEV victory for VW
The VW Tiguan was Europe’s best-selling PHEV in July, its second consecutive month of leading the market. This was thanks to 5,791 registrations, representing a surge of 656% year on year. The SUVs market share rose by 4.1pp to 5.1%.
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Second was the BYD Seal U, with 5,175 units. The Chinese model continues to perform strongly in its breakout year, remaining inside the top three since March. It captured 4.6% of the PHEV total.
Taking third was the Volvo XC60, posting 4,249 deliveries. This was a 2.1% decline in volumes, while its market share dropped by 2.1pp to 3.8%. Fourth was the Ford Kuga, scoring 4,064 sales in July. This translated to a year-on-year drop of 6.3%. The SUV made up 3.6% of PHEV volumes, down from 5.9%.
MG’s record result
The MG eHS finished fifth, its highest finishing position of 2025 so far. It posted a record 3,895 registrations, up 329.4% compared to 12 months prior. The SUV represented 3.5% of total sales, up 1.3pp.
In sixth was the BMW X1, which improved volumes by 4.1% with 3,602 units. This was not enough to stop its market share slipping from 4.7% to 3.2%.
The Toyota RAV4 followed in seventh, the SUV’s first appearance in the top 10 so far this year. Its 3,376-unit total was up 169.6% compared to July 2024. This gave the model a 3% market hold, up 1.3pp.
Eighth went to the Mercedes-Benz GLC, which saw deliveries fall 5.2% to 3,347 units. The SUV captured 3% of total PHEV volumes, up from 4.8%.
The Hyundai Tucson claimed ninth, marking its third top 10 finish of 2025 so far. The Korean model achieved a 70.4% year-on-year growth in sales to 3,018 units. In turn, its market hold rose by 0.3pp to 2.7%.
Toyota’s C-HR secured tenth, its lowest monthly placement this year. However, the Japanese SUV did improve volumes by 79.8%, with 2,841 deliveries.
Tesla leads BEV market despite fall
Despite slipping in monthly rankings, the Tesla Model Y still dominated the year-to-date BEV chart. The crossover held a 5.4% share of the BEV total, thanks to 74,847 registrations.
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This was nearly 29,000 deliveries ahead of the VW ID.4 in second. Despite a relatively average month of sales, it moved up one position from June, as other models endured poorer results. Its 46,041-unit total translated to a 3.3% share.
The combined registrations of Renault 5 and the Alpine A290 placed third, also gaining one spot from June. The hatchback recorded 44,893 sales and a 3.2% market share. The Skoda Enyaq and VW ID.3 both jumped up two spots to fourth and fifth, respectively.
These positive performances came at the expense of two models, the VW ID.7 and the Tesla Model 3. The former fell from fifth to sixth in the year-to-date table, while the US sedan dropped from second. This fall is unsurprising, with the BEV finishing 17th in July.
Fast approaching the higher positions was the Skoda Elroq, up one place to eighth. Just 3,644 units behind its VW Group sibling in second, meaning it could make significant progress if it continues to post strong volumes.
In turn, the Kia EV3 fell to ninth. The iX1 re-entered the table in 10th, at the expense of the Audi Q4 e-tron.
PHEV market close battle
The fight for Europe’s best-selling PHEV continues to be closely contested in 2025. Just 2,513 units separate the top three. However, the gap grew slightly in July as the VW Tiguan extended its lead. The SUV scored 34,966 sales from January to July, giving it a 4.9% market share.
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The Volvo XC60 held onto second, thanks to 33,436 registrations, translating to a 4.7% market hold. Behind, the BYD Seal U gained ground, representing 4.6% of total PHEV sales with 32,453 units.
The year-to-date standings remained the same from positions four to seven. The Ford Kuga slipped away from the lead battle in fourth, followed by the BMW X1. Then came the Toyota C-HR in sixth and the Mercedes-Benz GLC in seventh.
After a strong result, the MG eHS jumped from 10th to eighth in July. This meant the Cupra Formentor and BMW 5-Series dropped to ninth and 10th, respectively.
Chinese brands are entering Europe with new, technologically advanced electric vehicles (EVs). In a new webinar, Autovista Group experts discuss the impacts and map out the future with Autovista24 editor, Tom Geggus.
Chinese brands have European aspirations for their EVs. But as the market endures ongoing turbulence, is it ready for these vehicles? How have these brands performed so far in the region? Which new and used-car market brand strategies will prove successful in the years to come?
Cracking the code: Chinese EV brands entering Europe, the latest Autovista Group webinar, set out to answer these questions. On the panel was Christian Schneider, director of valuations at Autovista Group. Joining him was Christoph Ruhland, director of business development at Autovista Group.
Economic backdrop for EV brands
Europe saw promising EV market share growth at the beginning of the decade. However, battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales appear to have hit a small speed bump more recently.
The halting of incentive programmes in some European countries appeared to slow progress. New or reintroduced schemes have helped re-energise electrification. However, this recovery is regional. Different countries have set out different schemes alongside varying levels of natural market demand.
‘If you are speaking about cracking the code of Europe, there is not one code to crack. This is maybe what is also making it so complicated. Every country has specialities and different policies in place, different subsidies in place, different tastes in place,’ Schneider said.
This contrasts with the Chinese new-car market. Figures from the first half of the year show that roughly half of all new light vehicles sold in the country are plug-ins. This is backed by consistent industrial strategy, as well as demand for alternative powertrains, such as extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs).
Taking stock of new arrivals
Chinese brands’ share of the EU BEV market has been quite stable. This increased by one percentage point (pp) year on year in the second quarter of 2025. Meanwhile, PHEVs saw a 7pp increase over the same period.
‘It seems we are shifting a little bit away from imports from Chinese brands in the EU from purely battery-electric vehicles to plug-in hybrids, which are not hit by the tariffs that we have in place,’ Schneider stated.
However, Chinese brand performance is subject to regional specifics. Currently, there appears to be a split between countries in the north and the southeast. The likes of Germany and France have a relatively high income, but also a strong domestic carmaker presence.
This means a slightly lower BEV market penetration for Chinese brands, compared with the likes of Spain, Italy and Portugal. Additionally, countries like these have less-established all-electric markets, allowing for new entrants to gain a foothold more quickly.
Regionality also plays a part in residual value (RV) performance. Germany now sees a 9pp gap on average between new brands from China and those of more established marques. This has improved quite quickly from only a few years ago, when there was a difference of roughly 16pp.
Meanwhile, the Spanish used-car market has seen greater consistency. There has been less change in the value retention of Chinese brands. However, the gap is narrower at 7pp. While these averages offer a useful marker, selecting specific brands for analysis can reveal varied results.
What works for EV brands in Europe
Spanning development, product, sales and marketing, Chinese brands have strengths to play to. However, there is also room for improvement in some instances, Ruhland commented.
Chinese brands are not only competitive but, in many cases, lead in terms of technological capabilities and development speed. However, many of the models being introduced were created for the Chinese market. This means they are not completely aligned with European expectations and demands.
Generally, product quality is good, matching well-known brands and competing on a specification-to-price ratio. High-value equipment, which is often offered as standard on Chinese models, supports residual values too. Although this means lower entry list prices. But there is a divergence in regional preferences.
There are some contrasting customer preferences in China and Europe. The Chinese market values a touch-screen central infotainment system for a majority of controls. However, there is still an appreciation for physical buttons and dials in Europe. A lack of flexibility is apparent when comparing different cabin spaces of competing Chinese models.
Meanwhile, selling models have taken a step forward as brands lean towards dealer networks and away from flagship stores. New entrants can rely on the trust built by those dealerships, alongside their greater coverage. However, high sales targets can drive risky short-term cycle tactics, which can harm RVs.
For these new entrants to stand out in Europe, they need to examine brand recognition. A unique selling point (USP) is necessary to attract European buyers who have an abundance of different domestic and imported options. ‘The brand needs to have a core USP that is easy to remember and easy to communicate,’ Ruhland highlighted.
Enjoyed Cracking the code: Chinese EV brands entering Europe? Then sign up for Autovista Group’s next webinar: The road ahead: Residual value trends and the next market shift. It will take place on 14 October 2025 at 09:30 BST / 10:30 CET. Register for your place today.
With many European used-car markets observing residual value (RV) declines during August, what comes next? Autovista Group editors plot their expectations with Autovista24 editor Tom Geggus.
RV developments trended towards stagnation and decline across many European used-car markets during August.
On average, the absolute trade value of a 36-month-old car at 36,000km fell month on month in Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland and the UK. The only markets to avoid this fate were Spain and Germany. They saw stagnation at 0% and 0.1% growth, respectively.
Compared with August 2024, absolute RVs saw an improved performance, with only Italy, Switzerland, and the UK recording declines. These markets also saw the three lowest levels of year-on-year new-car list price growth.
As the cost of a new car increases, more consumers may turn to the used-car market as an alternative. This increase in demand stokes absolute RVs, with more money exchanged for models.
However, when presented as a percentage of new-car list price (%RV), values saw a steeper and more consistent decline. Compared with July, values fell across all recorded markets apart from Spain, which saw a marginal increase from 55.8% to 56%.
Year on year, %RVs fell across all observed markets. This ranged from a short drop of 1.8 percentage points (pp) in Germany to a 5pp tumble in Switzerland.
So, will these year-on-year decreases continue towards the end of 2025, and on into 2026 and 2027? Autovista Group editors outline their regional expectations.
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Slight RV decline in Austria
‘The sales-volume index (SVI) in Austria rose notably in August, increasing by 7.2% compared to July. However, it still recorded a 2.6% decline year-on-year, indicating lingering market challenges,’ commented Robert Madas, Autovista Group’s regional head of valuations.
The active-market volume index (AMVI) for two-to-four-year-old passenger cars followed a downward trend. It fell by 3.6% month-on-month and 9.4% compared to August 2024. This suggests a continued contraction in supply within this age bracket.
The average time to sell a used car decreased slightly by 0.4 days to 66.8 days. Full hybrids (HEVs) showed a significant improvement, making them the fastest-selling powertrain, taking 56.9 days to sell on average.
This was followed by diesel vehicles at 60.2 days, petrol vehicles at 66.4 days, and by plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) at 78.1 days. Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) continued to take the longest time to sell at 79.3 days.
The %RVs of a 36-month-old car at 60,000km declined slightly to 48.1% in August. This marks a 0.3pp drop from July and a 2.2pp decrease year-on-year. HEVs retained the highest trade value at 52.8%, followed by petrol cars at 50.4%. Then came diesel models with 48.5% and PHEVs with 45.6%. BEVs held the lowest %RV once again, at 38.4%.
‘Looking ahead, %RVs are expected to stabilise gradually until the end of the year,’ Madas said. ‘Forecasts suggest a 0.9% increase by the end of 2025 compared to December 2024, followed by a 0.7% decline in 2026, and a 0.6% decrease in 2027.’
France feels RV fall
‘France saw RVs begin to fall slightly in August. Higher list prices and lower absolute trade rates weighed on value retention,’ highlighted Ludovic Percier, Autovista Group’s senior RV analyst for France.
Since the beginning of 2025, average days to sell have remained stable across all powertrains. Compared to August 2024, it now takes less time to sell a used car. The summer usually sees a more active market, especially during June and July, with August being slightly quieter.
Absolute petrol RVs increased marginally in the 30 days to 6 August, defying a much larger trend. These vehicles are still in demand on the used-car market, even though smaller new volumes are being sold.
Diesel values fell slightly, while stock days were shorter compared with July’s report. The Hyundai Tucson was the fastest-selling model across the entire used-car market, as well as within the diesel and HEV categories.
HEVs remain the fastest-selling used powertrain in France. However, the powertrain’s absolute RVs dropped compared to July, as the technology features in more expensive models. However, these cars do not hold their value as well as their more affordable stablemates.
More suffering for PHEVs
PHEVs have continued to suffer. Used-car buyers are not willing to pay the comparatively higher prices. Now, as the range of these cars grows, list prices have increased across almost all brands.
The supply and demand of these models is still imbalanced. Previously, many PHEVs were sold to fleets on the back of fiscal advantages. However, private used-car buyers are not interested in paying a higher price for these models.
The SVI for PHEVs dropped by 14.2% month on month and 7.7% year on year. Compared with 12 months ago, the powertrain’s list prices increased by €5,101. However, absolute values remained stable, while %RVs fell by 4.3pp.
BEVs continue to see the lowest %RVs at 36.1%, down from last month and last year. Tesla had the two fastest-selling used BEVs with the Model Y and Model 3. These cars are now relatively cheap considering their range and segment.
Both the new and used-car markets are suffering from overcrowding. Registrations of new cars will see a push from fiscal incentives for fleets, while internal-combustion engines are penalised.
‘This will mean even more models will hit the used-car market, increasing oversupply,’ Percier explained. ‘Social leasing will only exacerbate this situation further when it is reintroduced in September.’
Germany sees RV stability
Following a decline in July, used-car demand in Germany increased significantly in August. The SVI increased by 14% month on month. This indicates a modest recovery in market activity despite a year-on-year decrease of 12.4%.
The AMVI for two-to-four-year-old passenger cars grew slightly. The metric rose by 2% month on month but still reflects a 6.5% decline from one year prior.
The average number of days needed to sell a used car in August was 59.1 days. This was a slight improvement of 0.5 days compared to July, but 1.2 days longer than in August 2024. PHEVs sold the fastest at 56 days, closely followed by HEVs at 56.4 days.
Diesel models took slightly longer to sell at 58.8 days, followed by petrol cars at 59.5 days. BEVs took the longest amount of time to leave dealerships at 61.5 days.
%RVs of 36-month-old cars at 60,000km remained unchanged from July, with a %RV of 48.3%, down 1.8pp year on year. Petrol cars led the market with a %RV of 49.9%. Then came diesel cars at 49.3% and HEVs at 48.9%, followed by PHEVs at 43.3%. BEVs again retained the lowest level of value at 37%.
‘Although RVs have recently stabilised in Germany, the level is significantly lower than in previous years, and demand remains weak. Therefore, RVs can be expected to remain under pressure,’ stated Madas.
By the end of 2025, %RVs are forecast to decrease by 2.7% when compared with December 2024. Pressure will probably ease in 2026, with RVs forecasted to suffer a smaller decline of 1.4%.
Less price pressure in Spain
Far from slowing down during the summer season, the Spanish new-car market continued to grow in July. Registrations were up 17.1% year on year, translating to a 14.3% increase in the year to date.
Aided by the Reinicia Auto + plan, sales of new electric vehicles (EVs), including BEVs and PHEVs, have grown. The powertrain grouping saw registrations increase by 154.9% year on year in July. In the year-to-date, EVs made up 17.4% of Spain’s new-car market.
‘The used-car market also continued to grow, just not to the same extent as the new-car market,’ said Ana Azofra, Autovista Group’s head of valuations and insights, Spain.
Year on year, transactions increased by 5.8% in July and 5.2% in the year to date. There was more positive news as a significant number of younger used models changed hands.
Sales of models less than 12 months old increased by 16% in July. Meanwhile, those between 12 and 36 months saw transactions climb by 15.7%.
This rejuvenation of supply has a positive effect on fleet sustainability. It also benefits the professional domain, which accounts for most of the transactions involving cars of this age.
‘This supply boosts the used-car market,’ Azofra highlighted. With an offer volume 42.3% lower than in August 2024, stock days fell, and prices felt less pressure. So, absolute RVs remained stable, still 2.1% higher than one year ago.
A typical used petrol car at 36 months and 60,000km, sold between professionals for an average of €17,728 in August. It was also an encouraging month for diesel vehicles, which still account for over half of all used-car sales. The powertrain’s stock days fell compared with July, and its absolute RVs improved month on month and year on year.
Supply slump in Switzerland
‘After a marginal decline in July, used-car demand in Switzerland fell more sharply in August,’ Madas outlined. The SVI dropped by 8.7% compared to July. Yet, year-on-year, the SVI was up by 7.4%.
The AMVI declined by 1.6% compared to July, indicating a cooling in used car supply. The supply volume of passenger cars in the 24-to-48-month-old age bracket slumped by 9.3% compared to August 2024.
‘The average RV of a 36-month-old car at 60,000km remained stable at 42.4%, unchanged from July,’ he added. ‘This was also down from the 47.4% recorded in August 2024.’
HEVs retained the most value in August by far at 47%. Then came petrol cars at 43.9%, diesel models at 41.8% and PHEVs at 39.9%. BEVs continued to be the worst-performing powertrain in terms of value retention. All-electric cars held only 36% of their original list price after 36 months and 60,000km.
The average number of days needed to sell a used car improved in August, falling to 73.5 days. This was 3.7 days faster than July and 5.2 days quicker than one year ago.
Diesel cars sold fastest at 70.9 days, followed by petrol models at 71.6 days, HEVs at 76.2 days and BEVs at 76.5 days. Meanwhile, PHEVs needed the most time to sell at 83 days on average.
A trend of relatively stable supply and low demand will continue as various uncertainties shroud 2025. Therefore, %RVs are expected to decrease in the coming years, but at a slower pace. By the end of 2025, %RVs are expected to decrease by 5% compared to December 2024. In 2026, a lower year-on-year drop of 1.5% is expected.
RV drop recorded in the UK
According to August’s Monthly Market Dashboard, the average absolute RV for a 36-month-old car in the UK dipped slightly to £15,187. This was down 1.8% month-on-month and 0.7% year-on-year.
‘%RVs also declined to 48%, reflecting a 2.4pp drop compared to August 2024,’ stated Jayson Whittington, Autovista Group’s regional head of valuations, UK. ‘Conversely, the average list price rose to £31,652, representing a 4.3% increase year-on-year.’
Market activity showed positive momentum, with the SVI indicating that 10.6% more cars were sold in August than in July. Meanwhile, the AMVI displayed a 4% uptick in the number of cars advertised by dealers. Interestingly, 26.7% more cars were available compared to August 2024.
Cars sold at a faster rate in August, with average days to sell falling to 35.9 days, 1.4 days faster than in July. This was perhaps due to the increased level of stock on offer, with consumers gaining access to a wider range of cars. All fuel types benefited from this faster sales rate. BEVs led the way, selling 4.1 days faster than in July, at an impressive 33.7 days.
‘Overall, it appears that retail activity shows resilience. Dealers will be pleased that stock availability is reasonably positive. Although RVs declined by a modest amount, there is plenty to be optimistic about as the end of summer approaches,’ concluded Whittington.
The EU new-car market rebounded in July, seemingly driven by electrified powertrains. But as the year-to-date figures fall, are cracks appearing? Autovista24 web editor James Roberts assesses the data.
A total of 914,680 new vehicles took to the EU’s roads in July, according to the latest figures from ACEA. This equalled a 7.4% year-on-year increase for the region.
Alongside April and May, July marked only the third month of growth in the EU so far this year. Therefore, year-to-date deliveries between January and July were down 0.7% when compared with the first seven months of 2024.
Of the 27 EU member states, 22 recorded new-car market growth in July. Focusing on the bloc’s major markets, Spain continued to impress. In total, 98,337 units were registered in the country, a 17.1% year-on-year upswing. Germany also recorded double-digit growth, with 264,802 registrations amounting to an 11.1% year-on-year increase.
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The sluggish French new-car market saw a 7.7% decline, more severe than the 6.7% drop recorded in June. Italy saw a 5.1% fall in year-on-year registrations. However, this proved less severe than the 17.4% slump in the previous month.
More generally, the biggest growth was seen in Latvia. The country’s relatively small market enjoyed a 60.2% lift. Conversely, fellow Estonia emerged as the worst-performing market in July. It saw a 40.3% dive in registrations, with negative figures recorded across all powertrains.
EU PHEV momentum continues
Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) saw notable success across the EU in July. 91,190 of these cars left regional dealerships, the second highest this year after June’s 94,178 total. So, PHEVs enjoyed a 56.9% year-on-year lift in July, carving out a 10% market share, a new comparative high.
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Of the EU’s larger new-car markets, Spain led the PHEV path. The country posted a 178.8% year-on-year surge to 12,311 units, a key factor in the nation’s generally buoyant July. Over the first seven months of 2025, Spain’s PHEV market was up 94.5% year on year.
PHEV, as well as battery-electric (BEV) sales in Spain, have been aided by government incentive programs like MOVES III. Introduced in April 2021, the scheme has been extended several times. Most recently in April 2025. This has fuelled a significant surge in sales of electrified vehicles.
Germany, alongside Italy, also enjoyed PHEV success in July, with 83.6% and 83.2% year-on-year gains, respectively. In the PHEV marketplace, France lagged behind its fellow major EU players. The country saw 8,415 plug-in hybrids registered, an 8.2% fall from 12 months ago. Spanning the first seven months of the year, France’s PHEV registrations were down 30.5% year on year.
Other large markets saw notable PHEV growth, including Austria. It enjoyed a 97.9% year-on-year delivery boost in July, to the tune of 2,782 units. Similarly, Poland’s PHEV registrations jumped by 90.7%, and neighbouring Czechia enjoyed a 70.9% rise.
The smaller markets of Latvia and Lithuania ended July with continued positive performances. Both nations witnessed triple-digit year-on-year PHEV increases in both the month and year to date. Latvia’s PHEV sales in July resulted in the highest upswing across the EU at 435.1%, while Lithuania saw deliveries improve by 321.1%
The EU’s BEV paradox
Across the EU, 142,699 BEVs were registered in July, 40,082 more vehicles than in 2024, underlining a 39.1% year-on-year increase.
In July, BEVs held a 15.6% market share. This followed a high watermark of 16.7% recorded in June. BEVs also command a 15.6% hold on the overall new-car market across the first seven months of 2025. Significantly, this figure has remained relatively stagnant so far this year. It has not shifted more than 0.6 percentage points (pp) since January.
Germany accounted for the largest sales volume in the EU with 48,614 BEVs rolling out of dealerships. This was a 58% year-on-year increase, underpinning a 38.4% uptick in BEV adoption across the first seven months of 2025. Spain recorded a triple-digit, year-on-year increase with 8,691 BEVs hitting the country’s roads in July. This marked a 127.1% year-on-year boost.
While France claimed a positive trend in BEV sales, the bigger picture is not so rosy. A 14.8% year-on-year gain was offset by the year-to-date figures. This equated to a fall of 7,533 units and a 4.3% dip compared with 2024. This paints France as one of only five EU nations with negatively trending year-to-date BEV sales. Only Croatia, Estonia and Romania fared worse.
Polish promise
Poland ended July with an eye-catching result. The country’s BEV sales improved by 231.4% year on year. This result forms an upward trend of Polish BEV adoption, with 18,071 fully-electric vehicles sold between January and July. This equates to a year-on-year surge of 80.5%
BEV sales in Poland have seen a significant increase in 2025, aided by a combination of new government incentives. This has included the implementation of the NaszEauto programme.
Launched in early 2025, this government-funded scheme offers substantial subsidies for the purchase of new BEVs. It also contains additional bonuses for scrapping older internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, as well as vehicle tax exemptions.
Across the EU, electric vehicle (EV) registrations, consisting of BEVs and PHEVs, increased by 45.5% to 233,889 units. The grouping also secured a market share of 25.6%, up 6.7pp year on year. Following the first seven months of 2025, the plug-in market share stands at 24.2%
Hybrids hold the cards
The irresistible trend of hybrid sales continued to dominate the EU new-car market in July. Between January and July, 2,255,080 were sold in Europe, a year-on-year improvement of 16.7%. The powertrain continues to be a popular bridging technology between traditional combustion engines and full EV adoption.
Hybrid power, accounting for mild and full versions, has regularly accounted for over a third of the overall EU new-car market in 2025. It claimed a 34.2% market share in July. In terms of registrations, the month saw a year-on-year growth of 14.3%, with 313,221 deliveries.
France enjoyed respectable hybrid growth in July with a 9.8% year-on-year upturn in volumes. This translates into a year-to-date hybrid volume increase of 30.5%, the nation’s only positively performing powertrain.
Germany’s hybrid interest remained strong. The country claimed a 15.5% year-on-year increase, with a total of 75,172 units offloaded. Seven months into 2025, hybrid sales in Germany increased by 10.7% year on year.
Bulgaria enjoyed the most significant upswing in year-on-year hybrid sales with a 102.9% increase in July. Only four nations witnessed a negative year-on-year hybrid trend. This included Denmark, the Netherlands, Finland, and Estonia. The latter saw a 33.5% drop and once again was in the doldrums.
Combining hybrid registrations with BEV and PHEV figures saw a total of 547,110 electrified vehicles registered in July. This amounted to a 59.8% overall market share for July, an 8.7pp year-on-year swing upwards. This largely mirrored in the data spanning January to July 2025, with the grouping claiming 59% of the market, up 10.1pp.
ICE ghost haunting the EU
The decline of newly registered ICE cars is nothing new. However, it does not appear to be happening fast enough to satisfy EU regulatory goals.
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Across the EU new car market in July, petrol registrations declined by 12%, compared with 12 months previously, giving the fuel type a 27.2% share. Notably, this is the smallest monthly fall of the year so far. Spanning the first seven months of 2025, the figure fell by 20.1%.
The largest petrol registration drop was seen in Estonia, with a 49.1% plummet. Of the major markets, France saw the largest decline with 24,919 petrol-powered vehicles taking to the nation’s roads. This meant a year-on-year fall of 33.4%. Spain, Italy and Germany also witnessed preference for petrol peter out.
Latvia retained a notable thirst for petrol power in July. It saw registrations increase by 47.9%, with 1,427 units sold. Double-digit increases were also chalked up in Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Malta, Portugal, Slovakia, and Sweden.
After seven months of 2025, only four EU states saw positive year-on-year petrol sales. This included Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia and Latvia.
Diesel done for?
Diesel sales saw a continued decline in July, however, not as stark as in previous months. A 15.2% drop compared to 12 months ago was underpinned by the second-highest sales volume of the year at 91,032.
Across the bloc, between January and July, just three nations saw an increase in diesel uptake. This included Hungary, Lithuania and the Netherlands.
Combining petrol and diesel registrations, July saw a 12.9% year-on-year decline, and a 37.1% ICE market share. This equated to an 8.7pp slide. After seven months of the year, total ICE registrations hit 2,449,923, capping a 37.7% market share, a figure which has only declined 1.7pp since January.
Europe’s big five automotive markets are experiencing a rollercoaster ride with new-car registrations. But have used-car transactions faced similar struggles in the first half of 2025? Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry examines the data.
Used-car markets in the UK, Germany, Italy, France, and Spain recorded mixed results in the second quarter of 2025. This reflects ongoing uncertainty in the new-car sector.
Two markets remained stable, with marginal declines, while one experienced a drop in contrast to its new-car market. Two others improved, with one market returning to pre-COVID-19 levels.
Between January and June, all of these used markets were up compared to the first half of 2024. However, with poorer performances compared to the first quarter of 2025, there were mixed volumes across the six months.
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UK used-car market grows back
In the second quarter of 2025, the UK’s used-car market registered a year-on-year improvement of 1.7%. In total, 1,996,116 transactions took place, according to data from the SMMT.
This was slightly below the total from the first three months of the year. However, the figures marked the 10th consecutive quarterly growth for the country’s market. This has been bolstered by an ongoing recovery in new-car registrations, which have boosted the supply of used vehicles.
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The second quarter got off to a slow start, with a 0.4% improvement in April, with 672,145 transactions. May saw 689,196 units change hands, equating to growth of 2.5%. This was the best result in the three months. June saw 634,775 transactions, a 2.1% rise on the same period in 2024.
Petrol remained the best-selling fuel type between April and June, with transactions up 1.5% to over 1,134,387 units. Diesel declined 4.3% to 664,644 used sales. However, this is better than the 12.9% decline in the new diesel market, suggesting there is still appetite for the powertrain.
Combined, internal-combustion engine (ICE) models made up 90.1% of all used-car transactions in the second quarter. However, this was down by 2 percentage points (pp), with a rise in electrified vehicle sales eroding this share.
Electric on the rise
According to the SMMT, 9.7% of transactions in the second quarter came from full hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). BEVs showed the strongest growth, up 40% with 68,721 all-electric models sold, taking a 3.4% market share.
HEVs saw sales increase by 27.7% to 100,127 units. This gave the powertrain a 5% share of the UK used-car market. PHEV transactions improved by 10.3% with 24,370 units changing hands, leaving them with a 1.2% share of all used sales.
Close to pre-COVID-19 levels
In the first half of the year, the UK’s used-car market was up by 2.2%, with 4,017,106 transactions. Compared to 2019, this was down by just 0.9%. The first quarter of the year saw sales increase only marginally, while the second quarter slumped 1.9%. This is the closest the market has been to 2019 levels since COVID-19.
‘Surpassing the four million half-year milestone for the first time since 2019 shows the UK’s used-car market is building back momentum,’ commented SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes.
‘That is good news for the industry and for motorists who benefit from more choice and affordability across a range of higher tech, cleaner vehicles, notably in the emerging electric vehicle sector,’ he added.
‘To maintain this trajectory, a thriving new-car market must be delivered across the segments, along with accelerated investment into the charging network to give every driver the ability to switch,’ Hawes commented.
The country’s used-car market is operating in contrast to the new-car sector. The first half of the year saw increases and decreases. In the second quarter, registrations were up by just 0.1%. However, a strong March result and decent deliveries in June meant new-car registrations were up by 3.5% in the first half.
Germany levels out
Germany’s used-car market has remained roughly stable across the year so far. In the second quarter, transactions declined by just 0.1%. 1,637,191 used models changed hands in the month, according to figures from the KBA.
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Sales have been on a rollercoaster ride, with three months of growth and three of declines so far this year. The second quarter started off with a 1.8% drop in April, as 570,882 cars were traded. A 3% improvement followed in May, as 544,683 transactions took place. However, June saw figures drop by 1.2%, with 521,626 cars sold.
This meant that in the first half of 2025, Germany’s used-car sector was up by just 0.3%, with 3,273,781 transactions. This was a difference of just 8,985 units in the six months.
However, the country’s new-car market is experiencing a very different performance. Registrations in the second quarter were down by 5%, with the country seeing deliveries in the first half dropping 4.7%.
Italian used-car disparity
Italy experienced the second-biggest disparity between new and used-car market fortunes across the first half of 2025. In the second quarter, used-car transactions increased by 1.7%, with 1,371,835 passenger cars changing hands, according to ANFIA.
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April was the best month of the quarter in terms of both volume and growth. 472,999 transactions took place, up 5.7% year on year. With 463,273 transactions, a 3.9% decline in May brought a run of eight consecutive months of improvements to an end. June saw a 3.9% improvement, although the 435,563 transactions were not enough to balance the volume decline from May.
The country’s used-car market ended the first half of 2025 with an improvement of 3.1%. In total, 2,849,751 transactions took place between January and June. This indicates that the Italian public is still drawn to the used-car market.
This was in contrast with the country’s new-car market. It saw a 5.6% fall in the second quarter of 2025, with only April providing any improvement. This meant the first half of the year ended down 3.5%.
France remains stable
As the French new-car market appears to be struggling, transactions of used cars remained stable in the second quarter.
According to Autovista24 calculations of figures from AAA Data, 1,353,506 models changed hands between April and June. This was a 0.3% decline compared to the same period last year. Following a 2% improvement in the first quarter, this suggests the market has stalled.
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April was the best month of the second quarter, with 478,129 transactions taking place. This was a 3.1% improvement year on year. May remained stable, with a small 0.3% increase, but June proved damaging, with a 4.1% decline.
So, in the first six months of 2025, three months saw growth and three experienced declines. 2,717,241 transactions took place between January and June, up by 0.9% year on year.
Changes ahead?
In May, the French parliament voted to abolish low-emission zones. However, this is yet to be approved, with both houses of Parliament required to pass the law. In addition, it must also be validated by the Constitutional Council.
According to AAA Data, this has yet to have an impact on vehicles displaying a ‘Crit’Air 3’ sticker or above. These vehicles are restricted from entering certain urban areas, which has hampered their sales in the used-car market. However, ‘Crit’Air 3’ transactions were down by 7% in June. This may change should the potential abolition come into effect.
June also highlighted powertrain trends in France’s used-car market. HEVs achieved the greatest growth, up by 43% in the month, while mild hybrids (MHEVs) saw a 19% improvement. BEV transactions also grew, up by 15%.
Diesel remained the most sought-after fuel type, accounting for 45.7% of all used sales. However, its transactions fell 8%, as did petrol. Combined, ICE vehicles made up 83.6% of the market. Electrified vehicles, made up of HEVs, PHEVs and BEVs, accounted for 11.1%.
The used-car market is in direct contrast to the new-car sector. France has been the worst-performing market of Europe’s big five so far in 2025. It recorded no growth at all in the first six months of the year. Registrations were down by 8.1% in the second quarter, after declining by 7.9% in the first half of 2025.
Spain’s used-car struggles
Unlike France, Spain’s new-car market has flourished so far this year. However, he country’s used-car sector paints a different picture.
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In the second quarter, transactions fell by 2.2%, as 511,067 cars changed hands, according to Autovista24’s analysis of GANVAM’s figures. A 12% decline in April and a 4.1% downturn in May undid much of the improvement achieved in the first quarter. The results were saved from further decline by a strong performance in June, with sales up by 11.8%.
According to GANVAM, a total of 163,202 transactions took place in April, with 174,198 sales in May, and 173,667 used cars changing hands in June. This meant 1,027,739 units were sold, up 3% year on year, according to Autovista24 calculations.
The industry association states that sales of passenger cars up to five years old improved by 7% in the first half. This meant they accounted for 26% of the market. Models between eight and 10 years old registered a 13.5% increase through June.
However, the bulk of used-car transactions seem concentrated in models over 15 years of age, accounting for over 41% of sales. This segment saw a 4.6% rise in transactions over the first six months of the year. Such performances are only increasing Spain’s average car parc age.
Diesel leads the way
Diesel vehicles remained the most popular powertrain, with 51.1% of the market, according to GANVAM. However, the total volume was down 0.2% between January and June. Petrol car transactions increased by 3.8% in the first half, representing 36.4% of the total market.
Sales of used BEVs continued their upward trend in the first six months, increasing by 51.9% compared to the same period last year, representing 1.2% of the total market. Sales of used PHEVs also increased by 41.5% in the period.
Spain’s used-car results were vastly different from its new-car market figures. Registrations were up 13.8% in the second quarter of the year, with a 13.9% rise in the first six months of 2025.
Exceptional circumstances have buoyed Spain’s new-car market this year. Government financial aid has supported drivers in the Valencia region. They have been replacing vehicles damaged by severe storms and flooding.
More significantly, the recent reinstatement of the MOVES III incentive scheme has turned around the country’s EV market. Aimed at BEV and PHEV purchases, this scheme provides subsidies up to €7,000.
Electric vehicles (EVs) pushed the German new-car market into growth in July. Were recently introduced tax incentives to thank for this registration recovery? Autovista24 editor, Tom Geggus, investigates.
July was the first time since April 2024 that the German new-car market recorded double-digit year-on-year growth. With 264,802 models taking to the roads, registrations were up by 11.1%, according to the latest data from the KBA.
‘This marked a significant recovery from the previous month’s decline and reflects a continued shift in consumer demand towards electrified mobility,’ commented Robert Madas, Autovista Group’s regional head of valuations.
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Germany’s new-car market has struggled in 2025. May has been the only other month to record an increase, with volumes up 1.2%. While July’s growth was a refreshing change of pace, it was not enough to change the current year-to-date trend.
With 166,7591 new cars taking to Germany’s roads between January and July, deliveries were down by 2.5% year on year. This equates to 42,313 fewer new cars making their way to customers.
With registrations of internal-combustion engine (ICE) models falling, July’s growth was powered by battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). But just how well did these electric models perform, and were incentives to thank?
EVs and incentives
BEV registrations rose by 58% in July to 48,614 units. The technology captured an 18.4% share last month, up from a 12.9% market hold in July 2024. July’s BEV figures were just 0.1% behind those recorded in July 2023. At this point business and private purchases were subsidised by the German government.
In the year to date, 297,340 BEVs were delivered, an increase of 38.4%, according to Autovista24 calculations. This meant BEVs accounted for 17.8% of overall volumes during this period, up from 12.6%.
PHEV registrations surged by 83.6% to 27,197 units. The powertrain represented 10.3% of the market, up from its 6.2% share recorded one year prior. In the first seven months of 2025, a total of 166,102 PHEVs were registered, translating to year-on-year growth of 59.2%. This provided PHEVs with a 10% market share, up from 6.1%.
As a combined category, the EV market recorded 75,811 deliveries in July, up 66.4% year on year. This meant electric models took a 28.6% market share, up from 19.1% 12 months previously. In the year to date, plug-ins claimed a 27.8% share, up by 9.1 percentage points (pp). This was thanks to registration growth of 45.2%, with 463,442 units delivered.
Incentives linked to growth?
So, was this EV growth the result of recently introduced tax-based incentives? First, the scheme only covers BEV purchases from July 2025 to December 2027. While all-electric volumes exceeded PHEV figures last month, plug-in hybrids saw greater growth, continuing a trend established since February 2025.
Second, the scheme only covers corporate purchases. Private buyers and leasers do not benefit from the scheme. The VDIK outlined that companies buying BEVs for business use can deduct 75% from tax costs in the first year. After this, 10 % can be taken off in the second year, then 5% in the third and fourth years.
Third, following the withdrawal of incentives at the end of 2023 all-electric registrations struggled comparatively throughout 2024. Compared with July 2023, deliveries dropped by just 0.1% last month. Meanwhile, the first seven months of 2025 were up 10.6%, on the same period two years ago. This indicates non-incentive inspired improvement this year.
Autovista Group’s chief economist, Dr Christof Engelskirchen, also highlighted that the incentive programme fails to address the used-car market. This is a critical element in ensuring the long-term adoption of EVs. He wrote that ‘an increase in new-vehicle supply, without stimulating the demand for used models is not ideal.’
An increase in registrations without used-demand could also lead to supply outweighing demand in three to four years. This could impact the used-EV market in the future.
What is boosting electric growth?
ZDK president Thomas Peckruhn acknowledged that EV sales have continued to develop positively in Germany. However, he pointed out that a major contributing factor is a broader offering across the volume segments.
VDIK president Imelda Labbé made a similar observation. She also drew attention to an increasing number of BEV registrations for international manufacturers. ‘We attribute this increase to the significantly larger range of vehicles available in the entry-level segments,’ Labbé said.
‘In recent months, a number of brands have introduced new models that are technically mature and, above all, affordable for a broad range of customers and users,’ she added. However, affordable vehicles are only one side of the coin.
The need for charging
Alongside budget, the lack of an accessible and robust, charging infrastructure is also a barrier to entry for those considering an electric model.
‘In order to achieve a sustainable ramp-up of electric mobility, we need a joint plan from all stakeholders for favourable framework conditions, which also includes charging infrastructure and electricity prices,’ Labbé commented.
Peckruhn also affirmed the need for better framework conditions. This includes a reduction in electricity taxes and a demand-oriented expansion of residential charging infrastructure. A consumer-friendly payment and pricing model for public charging was also suggested.
VDA president Hildegard Müller also argued for more public charging points, an expansion of power grids, and affordable charging.
‘The reduction in electricity tax for all consumers agreed upon in the coalition agreement could lower prices but is not included in the draft budgets for 2025 and 2026. Improvements are urgently needed here – otherwise, the federal government will miss the opportunity to secure cheaper charging current for e-cars,’ she added.
ICE wears thin
While EV registrations increased, ICE deliveries slid. Petrol registrations fell by 13.4% year on year to 72,192 units. This meant its market share fell from 35% in July 2024 to 27.3% last month. The year to date was similarly bleak, with deliveries dropping 25.9% to 469,651 units. The fuel type’s grip on the market hit 28.2%, down from 37.1%.
Diesel deliveries did not decline as much, but their volumes made up far less of the market. The fuel type accounted for 15.3% of all registrations, down 2.8pp. Its deliveries dropped by 6% to 40,529 units. In the year to date, it saw a 20.9% drop, with 251,911 new models hitting the roads. This meant it made up 15.1% of the market, down from 18.6% 12 months ago.
Combining petrol and diesel figures, the ICE sector fell by 10.9% last month to 112,721 registrations. This accounted for 42.6% of the total market, down from 53.1%. In the year to date, there were 721,562 ICE deliveries, down 24.2% year on year. Accordingly, ICE took a 43.3% share, down 12.4%.
So, while internal-combustion engines continue to command more of the German new-car market, the fuel type’s grip is thawing.
Most popular powertrain
While ICE thawed and EVs gained traction, hybrids continued to enjoy the greatest volumes. Combining full and mild variants, hybrid registrations reached 75,172 deliveries, up 15.5% year on year. This allowed the technology to claim a 28.4% share of the market, up 1.1pp.
The powertrain has been in a close battle with petrol for market dominance. It managed to take control in five out of seven months this year. However, its margin over its rival has only ever been a few hundred units. The exceptions to this trend were March, with a gap over 4,000 models, and July, where the difference was just under 3,000.
With this battle going the way of hybrids, the powertrain secured the greatest portion of the market in the year to date. Hybrids made up 28.5% of deliveries between January and July 2025, up from 25.1% 12 months ago. Registrations reached 475,138, up 10.7%.
Combining hybrid and EV numbers reveals a surging electrified market. In July, these models hit a 57% market share, up 10.6pp. Deliveries increased by 36.5% to 150,983 units. This bolstered the year-to-date figures to 938,580 registrations, up 25.4%, accounting for 56.3% of the market, up 12.5pp.
For only the second time in 2025, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) saw registration growth in the French new-car market. So, which powertrain failed to deliver in the month? Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry examines the data.
The French new-car market suffered another steep decline in July, as the country’s automotive market continued to struggle.
In July, registrations of new passenger cars fell by 7.7%, according to data from the PFA. This marked the seventh consecutive month of delivery declines. The result means no year-o-year improvements have been made so far in 2025. It was also the 14th decline in the French new-car market in 15 months.
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A total of 116,378 models took to French roads in the month, a difference of 9,659 units according to Autovista24 calculations. This represented the market’s third-biggest decline of the year. Sales to private individuals and fleets both fell by 10% each in the month.
Across the first seven months of 2025, the French new-car market declined by 7.9%. A total of 958,581 models were delivered. As a result, the country missed the one-million-unit mark, with 82,346 fewer registrations.
Changes to the country’s incentive scheme for BEVs are providing challenges in the French new-car market. These amendments could prove fruitful in the future. However, it is the decline of the petrol and diesel markets that is driving the country’s overall volumes down.
Wait-and-see approach
‘The automotive market is not recovering and is undoubtedly taking a wait-and-see approach due to changes in government support measures for EVs,’ commented Marie-Laure Nivot, head of automotive market analysis at AAA Data.
‘The new, slightly more advantageous ecological bonus formula has not yet had a significant impact given the delays between orders and deliveries.
‘Combined with the electric leasing expected at the start of the school year, it could finally make EVs attractive again for individuals, but it will not necessarily be enough to end this long downward trend that began in spring 2024,’ she added.
Strong French BEV market
The changes to the country’s ecological bonus came into effect on 1 July. The scheme has been renamed the ‘electric private vehicle boost’. It is now funded by energy savings certificates, with French government support withdrawn.
While the eligibility criteria for models are unchanged, the amounts available have been revised upwards. There will be €3,100 for households whose reference tax income is above €16,300, and €4,200 for the lowest-income households.
The social leasing plan will apply to 50,000 vehicles ordered from 30 September, according to AAA Data. Several brands are already displaying rental amounts.
BEVs saw figures improve by 14.8% in July, based on Autovista24 calculations. This was only the second time in 2025 that the all-electric market posted growth. This was its best performance of the year in terms of year-on-year percentage change.
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A total of 19,547 BEVs were registered in the month. This gave the powertrain a 16.8% share of the new-car market, up by 3.3 percentage points (pp) over July 2024. In total, 2,517 more new all-electric models were delivered in July.
The monthly result meant the decline in the BEV market for the whole of 2025 so far improved slightly. Comparatively, the market was 4.3% down on 2024’s volumes, with 7,552 fewer models delivered. BEVs accounted for 17.5% of overall volumes from January to July, up 0.6pp year on year.
However, the new incentives do not seem to have impacted the BEV market in July. Growth was mainly down to fleet purchases. In this market, all-electric deliveries jumped around 70%, to gain a 22% market share. Private registrations declined by 15%, according to AAA Data.
Mixed results for hybrids
While BEVs led improvements in July, hybrids, made up of full and mild hybrids, dominated in terms of volumes.
A total of 53,188 units were registered in the month, an increase of 9.8% year on year, Autovista24 calculated. This gave the technology a market-leading 45.7% share of the country’s total. This was up from 38.4% in the same month of 2024.
Between January and July, a total of 429,405 hybrids were delivered to customers, a 30.5% increase. This equates to an improvement of 100,429 units. In this period, the powertrain represented 44.8% of the market, up 13.2pp.
Meanwhile, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) registrations declined by 8.2% in the month, with 8,415 units delivered, according to Autovista24 calculations. Despite this, their market share remained stable, with the 7.2% recorded in the month, down 0.1pp year on year.
Over the first seven months of 2025, PHEVs recorded 57,564 deliveries, down 30.5% compared to the same period in 2024. This has meant their market share fell by 2pp, to 6%.
Combined French growth
Combining BEV and PHEV deliveries, the electric vehicle (EV) market grew by 6.7% in July, thanks to all-electric cars. This gave the technology a 24% share, up by 3.2pp. Between January and July, EVs were down 12.7%. Plug-ins took a 23.5% hold of overall registrations, down by 1.3pp.
Adding hybrids to these figures, the electrified market grew by 8.7% in July, equating to a jump of 6,492 units. This gave the powertrain grouping a dominating 69.7% hold of the market, its third-highest share of the year. The result also marked a 10.5pp increase compared to July 2024.
In the first seven months of 2025, electrified registrations were up 11.5%, with 67,579 more models delivered. This equated to a 68.3% market share, an increase of 11.9pp compared to 12 months prior.
Petrol fuels downfall
Much of France’s new-car market problems can be attributed to a steep decline in petrol and diesel registrations during 2025.
Petrol has not seen its monthly market volume increase since February 2024, making July its 17th consecutive drop. The powertrain achieved 24,919 deliveries in the month, a fall of 33.4%, based on Autovista24 analysis. This was its third-largest decline of the year and meant 12,522 fewer units were taken to the country’s roads.
This meant the fuel type’s market share fell by 8.3pp compared to July 2024. It ended the month at 21.4%, its joint-second-worst result of 2025. It was, however, an improvement on June’s result.
Across the first seven months of 2025, petrol has seen 219,766 registrations, a fall of 33.6%. Therefore, 111,360 fewer units were delivered in the country, over a third down compared to the same point last year.
The technology took 22.9% of the total passenger-car volume in the period. This was a drop of 8.9pp compared to 12 months prior and nearly half the share of the hybrid market.
Diesel slide continues
Meanwhile, diesel continued its slide in July. A fall of 28.3% meant 2,692 fewer registrations took place in the month. This left the powertrain with 5.9% of the market, down from the 7.5% seen in July 2024, according to Autovista24 calculations.
Between January and July, 48,306 diesel models were registered, a drop of 41% year on year. The fuel type captured a 5% market share during this period, a drop of 2.9pp. However, the technology closed the gap to PHEVs compared to their first-half shares, with just 1pp between them.
The poor performances meant that the combined internal-combustion engine (ICE) market fell by 32.4% in July, taking just 27.3% of the market. This was a 10pp drop year on year.
In the first seven months of 2025, ICE model deliveries declined by 35.1%, holding 28% of the total. This was down from its 39.7% share recorded a year previously.
