IDN – Global electric vehicle (EV) sales have reached a record high. In September 2025, total sales hit 2.1 million units. The figure rose 20 percent compared to the same period last year. The report was released by UK-based market research firm Rho Motion. Rho Motion is known as a global energy and transportation market analysis institution that regularly monitors the development of the electric vehicle (EV) and battery industries.
According to the report, the increase in EV sales was driven by markets in Europe and the United States (US). In Europe, sales of affordable electric vehicles surged sharply. In the US, buyers took advantage of the final opportunity before the US$7,500 EV subsidy was abolished starting October 1, 2025, by the administration of President Donald Trump.
This phenomenon marks the end of the stagnation period known as the “EV Chasm.” The term refers to a decline in interest between early adopters and the early mainstream market, as described in the book Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey A. Moore, an American author and business consultant widely recognized in the field of technology marketing.
EV sales in Europe reached 430,000 units, up 36 percent from last year. In North America, sales reached 220,000 units, growing 66 percent. The figures include both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Cumulatively, global EV sales from January to September 2025 reached 14.7 million units. The total increased 26 percent from the previous year. China recorded nine million units, up 24 percent. Europe reached three million units, up 32 percent. North America reached 1.5 million units, up 11 percent.
The increase in sales in Europe was also driven by automakers such as Renault and Volkswagen launching new electric models priced at around 40 million won. The United Kingdom also supported growth by reactivating electric car purchase subsidies. From the manufacturer’s side, Tesla launched a more affordable version of the Model Y in the US and Europe. The new variant reduced optional features and lowered prices by up to 10,000 euros.
Despite the positive trend, the EV industry still faces challenges. The removal of subsidies in the US and ongoing trade tensions between the US and China could slow the pace of global electric vehicle market growth. (*)
