Global EV growth slows to 6.6 million new units as China weakens, while Europe holds stronger momentum
Executive summary: Handelsblatt reports that global electric vehicle sales are projected to reach 6.6 million new units, reflecting slower growth due to weakening demand in China, while Europe shows comparatively stronger momentum. The slowdown signals potential challenges for automakers relying on EV volume growth and underscores the importance of regional market dynamics for investment and production planning.
Who is involved: Key stakeholders include global automakers, Chinese EV manufacturers, European automotive markets, and policymakers monitoring emissions targets.
Likely next: Automakers may adjust production forecasts and incentive strategies, while regulators monitor progress toward CO2 fleet targets; any rebound in Chinese demand could quickly shift the outlook.
According to Handelsblatt, worldwide electric vehicle sales are advancing only slowly, with 6.6 million new EVs expected, hampered by weakening demand in China. In contrast, European markets continue to show relatively better performance. The divergent trends highlight the uneven recovery of the EV sector across regions.
Timeline
- — Elektromobilität: 6,6 Millionen neue Elektroautos - Markt wächst langsamer (Handelsblatt)
Analysis — what this means
Sectors affected
- European EV market
- Chinese EV market
- global automotive manufacturing
Historical parallels
- BMW regained second place in German EV registrations in July 2026 (per Handelsblatt archive)