Latest EV News This Week December 2025: Global Sales
The electric vehicle (EV) sector wrapped up 2025 with a blend of groundbreaking global achievements and notable strategic adjustments, making EV latest news particularly compelling for the Indian diaspora and global NRIs interested in sustainable technology and mobility trends. Over 25% of new cars sold worldwide this year were electric or plug-in hybrids—a historic milestone driven largely by emerging markets including rapid adoption in Asia. At the same time, legacy automakers like Ford announced major pullbacks, and policy relaxations in the EU and US highlight a transitional phase favouring hybrids. This comprehensive EV news update explores these developments and their relevance to markets like India, where EV penetration is accelerating with affordable models from Tata, Mahindra, and international players.
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Historic Global Milestone: EVs Cross 25% of New Car Sales in 2025
One of the most positive stories in EV latest news this week is the confirmation from energy think tank Ember that more than 25% of all new cars sold globally in 2025 were fully electric or plug-in hybrids. This landmark figure signals that electrification has firmly entered the mainstream, with emerging markets leading the charge.
Countries in Asia, including Thailand (20% EV share), Indonesia, and others in Southeast Asia, have seen explosive growth from low bases, mirroring the trajectory India is on with government incentives like FAME and PLI schemes. EVs offer three times the efficiency of petrol/diesel vehicles, translating to massive savings on fuel—especially relevant for cost-conscious markets like India, where electricity tariffs are lower and grids are progressively greening.
China continues to dominate with brands like BYD delivering models cheaper than equivalent ICE vehicles on average. Analysts project around 22 million EV sales in 2026, sustaining a strong market share. For NRIs tracking investments or planning vehicle purchases back home, this global momentum underscores growing options in affordable, long-range EVs from Indian manufacturers and incoming Chinese players.
Despite slower growth in the US and Europe due to policy shifts, the overall trajectory remains upward, with battery costs falling and infrastructure expanding rapidly.
Ford’s $19.5 Billion Writedown Signals Caution in Mature Markets
The biggest headline in EV news this week came from American giant Ford Motor Company, announcing a massive $19.5 billion charge linked to scaling back its aggressive pure-EV plans. This includes writedowns for canceled models and future cash outflows.
Ford is canceling several all-electric projects, including next-gen commercial vans and large pickups. Its flagship F-150 Lightning will transition to an extended-range EV (EREV) setup with a petrol generator for longer journeys. Battery plants originally built for vehicles are being repurposed for stationary energy storage.
The move reflects reduced pure-EV demand in the US after federal tax credits expired and emissions regulations eased. CEO Jim Farley emphasised “following the customer,” with hybrids and EREVs addressing range anxiety—a concern also prevalent among Indian buyers in regions with limited charging infrastructure.
Ford raised its 2025 earnings guidance to $7 billion, betting on profitable trucks and hybrids. By 2030, half its global sales are expected from electrified powertrains. This pragmatic pivot resonates with Indian automakers like Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai, who are heavily investing in strong hybrid technology alongside pure EVs.
EU Softens 2035 Combustion Engine Ban, Allowing More Hybrids
In Europe, the European Commission proposed relaxing its strict 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine sales, shifting to a 90% CO2 reduction target instead of 100%. This effectively keeps the door open for plug-in hybrids, range-extenders, and vehicles running on CO2-neutral fuels.
The decision responds to pressure from automakers facing stiff competition from Chinese brands and slower EV adoption than planned. While some like Volvo remain committed to full EVs, most legacy players—including Volkswagen—welcome the flexibility.
This policy adjustment parallels evolving strategies in India, where the government supports multiple pathways (pure EV, hybrids, CNG, biofuels) to reduce oil imports and urban pollution. For NRIs considering European vehicle options or tracking global regulations, the shift highlights a balanced approach favouring consumer choice.
Battery Tech Advancements and Infrastructure Growth Relevant to Emerging Markets
EV battery technology continues to evolve rapidly. Lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) cells—used extensively by Tata Motors and MG in India—are dominating affordable segments due to lower costs, safety, and longevity. BYD extended warranties on its Blade batteries, setting new benchmarks.
Sodium-ion batteries are gaining attention for even lower costs and abundant raw materials, potentially transformative for price-sensitive markets. Solid-state batteries promise higher ranges and faster charging but remain a few years away from mass production.
Charging infrastructure is expanding globally, with projections of 20 million public points by 2030. In India, companies like Tata Power and government initiatives are accelerating charger rollout, easing range concerns.
Year-end deals include attractive offers on models like the Kia Niro EV and Rivian updates adding advanced driver-assistance features. In India, festive and end-of-year discounts on Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV400, and MG ZS EV make now an excellent time for purchases.
Challenges, Opportunities, and Outlook for India and the Global NRI Community
Policy volatility in Western markets—subsidy cuts in the US and relaxed targets in the EU—has tempered growth there, potentially leading to North America’s first annual EV sales decline. However, emerging markets like India, China, and Southeast Asia are more than compensating.
India’s EV market grew over 50% in 2025, driven by falling prices, state incentives, and expanding model choices. For NRIs sending vehicles home or investing in green mobility, options from Tata, Mahindra, and upcoming entrants offer compelling value.
Hybrids and EREVs are bridging the gap, addressing infrastructure and range limitations—particularly useful on Indian highways. Analysts expect a hybrid-dominant phase through the late 2020s, followed by accelerated pure-EV adoption as batteries drop below $80/kWh and charging networks mature.
Looking Ahead to 2026: Continued Momentum with Regional Nuance
This week’s EV latest news illustrates a resilient industry celebrating global milestones while adapting to regional realities. For the Indian diaspora, the trends point to increasing affordability, choice, and sustainability in personal mobility—whether in India, the US, Europe, or elsewhere.
Consumers benefit from diverse powertrain options: efficient pure EVs for city commuting, strong hybrids for longer trips. Indian manufacturers are well-positioned to capitalise on both domestic and export opportunities.
