Europe’s electric vehicle sales hit record as cheaper models arrive

Electric vehicle sales in the European Union reached record levels in 2026, driven by a wave of more affordable models as carmakers work to meet EU emissions targets, according to a new study.

A total of 1.64 million EVs were sold across the bloc from January through August, up 45% from the same period last year, the Brussels-based environmental advocacy group Transport & Environment found in its EV progress report, published Monday.

EVs accounted for 22% of the market during that period, 6 percentage points higher than a year earlier, the report said.

T&E called 2026 “a pivotal year for EV availability.” The number of models on offer rose 50% in a single year as manufacturers expanded their line-ups to comply with EU emissions rules, the group said.

Carmakers including Volkswagen are rolling out affordable electric vehicles, such as the all-electric Polo. The report said the models are helping the German automaker close its compliance gap and avoid fines.

European manufacturers dominate the EV market, accounting for nearly 60% of available models. They added 16 models in the first half of 2026. Chinese carmakers hold 21% of available models and added 11.

The study also pointed to the effect of higher fuel prices tied to the Middle East conflict on drivers of gasoline- and diesel-powered cars. Diesel has risen the most, up 38% since the Iran war began. Filling a 50-liter tank now costs 30 euros (about $34) more, according to the report.