Global EV Sales Jump 24% in May as China Reaches Record High
Global electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle (EV) sales surged by 24% in May year-over-year, according to market research firm Rho Motion. The strong performance was led by China, where monthly EV sales exceeded one million units for the first time this year, driven by robust domestic demand and aggressive export strategies.
Chinese automaker BYD played a key role in expanding EV sales, exporting large volumes to markets such as Mexico, Southeast Asia, and Uzbekistan. “BYD’s exports to Mexico and Southeast Asia, along with Uzbekistan, have significantly boosted sales in these regions,” noted Charles Lester, data manager at Rho Motion.
In Europe, fleet incentives in Germany and strong growth in Southern European markets contributed to a 36.2% rise in EV sales, reaching 330,000 units. However, North America showed more modest growth, with sales increasing just 7.5% to 160,000 units, partly due to the expiration of Canadian subsidies and broader policy uncertainties.
Global automakers continue to face challenges in the U.S., where new 25% import tariffs have prompted several companies to reconsider their 2025 forecasts. Tesla’s Berlin-based Model Y production remains shielded from these tariffs, but the company faces intensifying global competition as production volumes increase worldwide.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump’s policies on emissions standards and tariff uncertainties have further slowed EV adoption in North America. U.S. tax credits for EVs remain in place but are scheduled to begin phasing out in 2026, adding another layer of hesitation for potential buyers.
By the numbers, global sales of battery-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids totaled 1.6 million units in May. China’s sales grew over 24% year-over-year to 1.02 million vehicles. Europe recorded a 36.2% increase, while North America lagged with a 7.5% gain. The rest of the world saw a 38% rise, reaching 150,000 vehicles.
Summing up the global picture, Charles Lester stated, “The story this month with global vehicle sales is the continued chasm between Chinese market growth versus the faltering market in North America.”