As the U.S. electric-vehicle market remained down year-over-year in May, the European EV market hit a new high with nearly one in four cars sold being fully electric.

Data compiled by E-Mobility Europe showed that 212,387 EVs were registered during the month, a 34% year-over-year increase.

“Electric vehicles are one of Europe's biggest growth stories in 2026,” said E-Mobility Europe Secretary General Chris Heron.

The trade association reported that seven out of the top 10 EVs sold so far in 2026 were by European brands and that automakers are seeing rising demand as their order books fill up.

“Consumers and governments alike are responding to Europe's energy security challenge, with every new electric car sold cutting fuel costs and permanently reducing oil imports,” Heron said.  

“It is particularly encouraging to see European manufacturers benefiting from this growing demand.”

Italy led the growth, its EV registrations up over 100% year-to-date to an almost 9% market share. The trade association credits the increase to an EV incentive program the country approved last year.

France was another standout, reaching 29% market share “as it doubled down on electrification to address its energy insecurity and oil dependence.”

German EV registrations hit 25% in May, but Nordic and Benelux countries retained their high market shares.