Global EV Sales Topped 20 Million in 2025 — And the US Is at Risk of Being Left Behind

Global electric vehicle sales exceeded 20 million units in 2025 — roughly one in four new cars sold worldwide — according to the International Energy Agency. The momentum is accelerating: 2026 projections sit at 23 million units, approximately 28% of global sales. But the picture looks very different depending on where you live.

Europe and China Are Racing Ahead

Europe posted the strongest growth among major markets in 2025, with EV sales jumping over 30% and reaching 28% of all new car sales across the region. Tighter EU CO2 emissions standards are forcing automakers to rapidly expand electric lineups and offer more affordable EV models. Europe is on track for one in three new vehicles to be electric in 2026.

China is in a category of its own. EVs represented nearly 55% of all new car sales in China during 2025. Chinese automakers exported a record 2.5 million EVs globally, with brands like BYD offering price points many Western manufacturers still can't match. Chinese battery giant CATL supplies approximately 80% of batteries used in China's electric truck market.

The US Picture — and What It Means for DMV Buyers

The United States remained below 10% EV market share in 2025, with growth largely stagnating compared to other regions. Rollback of EV tax credits and policy uncertainty have created headwinds. However, for DMV buyers, this creates a specific opportunity: EV incentives are at their most aggressive right now, as manufacturers spend heavily to drive adoption. Average incentive spending on EVs is nearly 3.5x what automakers spend on gas-powered vehicles.

For buyers in DC, Maryland, and Virginia considering the BMW iX3, state-level incentives and lower running costs — especially as gas prices remain above $4.50/gallon — make the economics of EV ownership increasingly compelling. The IONNA charging network's 20% discount for BMW EV owners through September 2026 adds further value.