KATHMANDU: Global EV sales crossed the 2 million mark in June 2026, driven by strong demand in Europe. However, the United States continued to lose momentum after ending its federal EV tax credit, while China increasingly relied on exports as domestic demand weakened.
According to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, global EV sales reached 2 million units in June, taking total sales for the first six months of 2026 to 9.6 million units. This represents a 7 percent year-on-year increase and an 11 percent rise compared to May.
Europe remained the fastest-growing major EV market. The region recorded 530,000 EV sales in June, up 31 percent year-on-year and 28 percent month-on-month, making it the strongest month on record for EV sales.
France, Denmark, Spain and Portugal all achieved record monthly EV sales. French automaker Renault captured a 20 percent share of its domestic EV market, while Volkswagen Group expanded deliveries of its new affordable electric models, including the ID.Polo, Cupra Raval and Skoda Epiq.
In contrast, North America’s EV market continued to weaken. Regional sales fell 13 percent year-on-year in June, while year-to-date sales declined 20 percent. Benchmark attributed the slowdown mainly to the end of the US federal EV tax credit, which has reduced consumer demand.
The report also noted that all-electric vehicle sales at General Motors and Ford declined faster than the overall US EV market as both companies continue to revise their EV strategies.
China remained the world’s largest EV market with 1 million units sold in June. However, domestic sales were 11 percent lower than a year earlier, while year-to-date sales dropped 14 percent.
To offset weaker demand at home, Chinese automakers expanded exports. The country shipped nearly 500,000 new energy vehicles (NEVs) in June, setting a new monthly export record. Europe remains one of the key export destinations, particularly for plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Benchmark said Europe continues to lead global EV growth, while China is increasingly dependent on overseas markets. Meanwhile, the US is falling further behind after rolling back key EV purchase incentives.
