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Europe's BEV sales expected to exceed half of new light vehicle sales by 2032 -study

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on September 9, 2025

2 min read

· Last updated: January 22, 2026

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Europe's BEV sales expected to exceed half of new light vehicle sales by 2032 -study
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(Reuters) -Battery electric vehicles are expected to exceed half of new light vehicle sales in Europe by 2032 and overtake sales of hybrids after 2030, according to an EY report published on Tuesday.

Battery Electric Vehicles to Surpass Half of Europe's New Sales by 2032

(Reuters) -Battery electric vehicles are expected to exceed half of new light vehicle sales in Europe by 2032 and overtake sales of hybrids after 2030, according to an EY report published on Tuesday.

While European brands have been slower to produce affordable electric models, EY's study forecasts that BEVs will account for nearly all new car sales in Europe by 2050.

"Policy targets, a rebound in demand and affordable models are expected to drive EV uptake," the report says, despite flagging softened emission penalties through 2027.

This week European automakers are showcasing new EVs amidst tough competition from Chinese brands at this year's IAA Mobility in Munich, Germany.

Europe's automotive sector is currently facing a range of challenges including Chinese competition at home and tariff hikes from the U.S.

In the U.S. meanwhile, EV sales are expected to surge before the expiry of tax credits and then experience a prolonged slowdown, the report says.

Globally, looking at Europe, the U.S. and China, EY expects light vehicle sales to see moderate growth in 2025, slowing to 2.2% year on year from 8% sales growth in 2023, down to under 2% annually by 2030.

It cites escalating trade tensions, rare earth shortages and the phase-out of U.S. EV credits which are expected to disrupt supply chains and affect affordability.

(Reporting by Marleen Kaesebier in Gdansk; Editing by Matt Scuffham)

Key Takeaways

  • BEV sales in Europe expected to surpass 50% by 2032.
  • BEVs to overtake hybrid sales after 2030.
  • Policy targets and affordable models drive EV uptake.
  • European automakers face competition from Chinese brands.
  • Global light vehicle sales growth to slow by 2030.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of new light vehicle sales in Europe will BEVs account for by 2032?
Battery electric vehicles are expected to exceed half of new light vehicle sales in Europe by 2032.
What factors are driving the uptake of electric vehicles in Europe?
Policy targets, a rebound in demand, and affordable models are expected to drive EV uptake, despite softened emission penalties through 2027.
How are European automakers responding to competition from Chinese brands?
European automakers are showcasing new EVs amidst tough competition from Chinese brands at this year's IAA Mobility in Munich, Germany.
What is the expected trend for EV sales in the U.S.?
In the U.S., EV sales are expected to surge before the expiry of tax credits and then experience a prolonged slowdown.
What challenges does the global automotive sector face?
The automotive sector is facing challenges including escalating trade tensions, rare earth shortages, and the phase-out of U.S. EV credits, which are expected to disrupt supply chains.

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