Electric vehicle (EV) sales worldwide hit a new milestone with 2 million units sold in June 2026, pushing year-to-date figures close to 10 million, according to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. This growth reflects a mixed picture across key global markets, with Europe accelerating its EV adoption while the United States continues to see declining sales amid shifting government policies.

Europe emerged as the leading driver of global EV sales, posting its strongest month yet. Sales surged 31% compared to the same period last year and 28% month-over-month, fueled by strong government incentives, high fuel prices, and a newly expanded lineup of affordable EV models. Countries including France, Denmark, Spain, and Portugal set new monthly sales records. Domestic brands like Renault dominated the French market, with several Renault models ranking among the nation’s top EV sellers.

Major automakers have bolstered Europe’s affordable EV segment, introducing models such as the Volkswagen ID. Polo, Cupra Raval, and Skoda Epiq. This growing availability of competitively priced electric vehicles has enabled a broader range of consumers to choose EVs, addressing a longstanding gap in the market for budget-friendly options. Analysts highlight that this trend is critical for sustaining Europe’s momentum toward electrification.

In stark contrast, North America is losing traction in EV sales. Following the expiration of the US federal EV tax credit, the region’s EV sales declined 20% year-to-date. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence notes that while sales have not collapsed, growth momentum has stalled. Leading American automakers such as GM and Ford have experienced sharper declines in all-electric vehicle sales as they adjust their EV strategies amid these policy changes. Canada, however, marked a significant development with the arrival of the first Chinese-built Lotus Eletre SUVs.

China, the world’s largest EV market, showed signs of cooling demand domestically. With slightly decreased sales in June compared to the previous year, Chinese automakers are increasingly targeting exports to maintain growth. The region remains essential to the global EV landscape but is shifting focus amid evolving market dynamics.

  • Global EV sales grew 7% year-over-year and 11% month-over-month in June.
  • Europe’s June EV sales hit 533,000 units, up 31% year-over-year.
  • China sold around 1 million EVs in June but faced a 14% decline in year-to-date sales compared to last year.
  • North America’s EV sales totaled 130,000 units in June, down 20% year-to-date.
  • Other global markets outside the main regions nearly doubled sales year-over-year.