Electric Vehicles by Country 2026: Top Nations, EV Sales

January 20, 2026
Sreekanth bathalapalli
World News
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Electric Vehicles by Country 2026: Top Nations, EV Sales Numbers, Market Share Percentages & What It Means for NRIs

The global electric vehicle (EV) revolution is in full swing, with more than one in four new cars sold worldwide in 2025 being electric (BEVs + PHEVs), totaling around 20.7 million units according to latest reports from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence and IEA projections. This marks a 20-25% year-over-year growth, fueled by falling battery prices, government incentives, and the rise of affordable models—especially from Chinese manufacturers.

As Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) explore sustainable mobility options for family back home in India or during visits, EV adoption varies widely: Nordic countries dominate in percentage penetration, while China leads overwhelmingly in volume. Emerging markets like Southeast Asia are leapfrogging ahead, often surpassing the US.

Here’s the latest 2025-2026 breakdown of top countries by EV sales numbers, market share percentages, and implications for the Indian diaspora.

Top Countries by EV Market Share (Percentage of New Car Sales) – 2025 Data

Norway continues its world-beating streak:

Norway — 95.9% (nearly 98% in December 2025) — Almost all new cars are electric, thanks to tax exemptions, excellent charging infrastructure, and long-term policies.
China — ~50-60% (NEVs including BEVs/PHEVs; crossed 50% in 2025) — Half or more of new sales are electric, driven by massive domestic production.
Singapore & Vietnam — ~40% — Southeast Asian leaders overtaking many European nations with affordable imports.
Sweden — ~58% — Strong Nordic performer.
Denmark — ~56% — Rapid uptake with policy support.
Thailand — ~20% — Fast-growing in ASEAN.
Indonesia — ~15% — Surpassing the US in penetration.
European Union (average) — ~20-25% — Steady with upcoming CO₂ targets.
United States — ~10% — Plateaued due to policy shifts and preference for larger vehicles.

Globally, 39 countries now exceed 10% EV share in new sales (up from just 4 in 2019), showing the shift is truly worldwide.

Top Countries by Total EV Sales Volume – 2025 Full-Year Estimates

China’s dominance in sheer numbers is unmatched:

China — 12.9 million units (over half of global sales) — World’s largest market, with strong growth in exports.
Europe (combined) — ~4.3 million — Led by Germany, UK, France, and Nordic countries.
North America (mainly US) — ~1.8 million — Slight decline or stagnation in some reports.
Rest of World (including Southeast Asia, Latin America) — ~1.7 million — Fastest regional growth at ~48%.

Projections suggest global sales could approach 25+ million in 2026 as infrastructure expands.

Key Trends & Relevance for NRIs

Emerging Markets Leapfrogging — Countries like Indonesia (15%), Thailand (20%), and Brazil are outpacing the US and Japan in penetration, often thanks to low-cost Chinese EVs (e.g., BYD models). This trend benefits NRIs in regions with growing Indian communities.
India’s Position — While India’s EV share remains lower (~3-5% in recent data), growth is accelerating with government push (FAME scheme) and affordable models. NRIs investing in or returning to India can expect better charging networks and incentives soon.
Policy & Affordability — Norway proves incentives work; China’s subsidies lower global prices. For NRIs, this means easier access to EVs during visits home or in host countries like the US/UK (where Chinese brands face tariffs but alternatives grow).
Challenges — US faces uncertainty with policy changes; Europe stabilizes post-subsidy adjustments. Charging infrastructure and range anxiety remain hurdles in many places.

The EV boom offers NRIs greener, cost-effective transport options—whether buying in India, the Middle East, or abroad. With Chinese brands like BYD now outselling Tesla globally, affordable choices are increasing.

Outlook for 2026

Global EV share could hit 27-30% this year, with China, ASEAN, and Nordics leading. As battery costs drop further, EVs become mainstream worldwide.

Stay connected with NRIGlobe for updates on sustainable mobility, EV trends for NRIs, medical & green tech innovations, and practical tips for the Indian diaspora.