EV registrations in the EU: +3.2% in May, electricity demand rebounds amid falling prices

New car sales in the EU rose by +3.2% in May 2026, driven by "strong demand" for electric vehicles. In France, petrol vehicle sales have plunged by -36.8% since the beginning of the year. The European EV market is rebounding-with significant variations across countries.

The Fact

New car registrations increased by +3.2% in the European Union in May 2026 (ACEA / Le Figaro, June 23, 2026), driven by "strong demand" for electric vehicles. In France, a sign of accelerated transition, registrations of petrol vehicles fell by -36.8% since January 1, 2026. The data reflect the combined effect of persistent purchase incentives, falling EV prices (Chinese competition), and the expansion of offerings across all price ranges.

Our Analysis

The rebound in the European EV market is real but fragile. Competition from Chinese manufacturers (BYD, SAIC via MG, Leapmotor) is driving prices down-a good thing for consumers but putting pressure on European manufacturers' margins. For critical suppliers (cables, charging stations, batteries), every increase in registrations signals new orders. The spectacular decline in petrol-powered vehicles in France (+10 percentage points acceleration vs. 2025) confirms the irreversibility of the shift-but charging infrastructure remains the main bottleneck.

To Watch

ACEA June 2026 data; evolution of China-made EV prices in the EU; IONITY/Fastned charging infrastructure announcements for Q3 2026.