Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Record sales of electric cars worldwide in September
The global electric vehicle market saw a record-breaking month in September 2024, with an impressive 1.7 million EVs sold worldwide, as reported by EV research house Rho Motion. This figure surpassed the previous record set in December 2023 by 150,000 units, marking a significant milestone for the industry.
In China, the market soared to new heights with 1.1 million EVs sold in September 2024, surpassing the previous record set in August by 90,000 vehicles. The year-to-date figures also paint a positive picture, with a total of 11.5 million EVs sold globally in the first nine months of 2024, reflecting a growth of 22% compared to the same period in the previous year.
Charles Lester, Rho Motion data manager, expressed optimism about the industry’s future, stating, “This record month of EV sales brings new hope to the industry. While concerns over a recent sales slowdown lingered, the resilience shown in September is encouraging. However, the disparities among different regions are striking, with China dominating the global market while Europe’s numbers dwindle, and the US and Canada experience steady growth.”
Snapshot of Electric Vehicle Sales in January – September 2024 vs January – September 2023:
- Global: 11.5 million, +22%
- China: 7.2 million, +35%
- EU & EFTA & UK: 2.2 million, -4%
- USA & Canada: 1.3 million, +10%
- Rest of World: 0.9 million, +25%
In the EU & EFTA & UK region, approximately 300,000 EVs were sold in September 2024, bringing the total for the year to 2.2 million units. While battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales showed a 12% year-on-year increase, plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) sales experienced a 12% decline compared to September 2023.
The UK market, known for its strong September sales due to new registration plates, saw a significant surge in EV sales in September 2024, more than tripling the figures from the previous month. Meanwhile, the Norwegian market retains high EV penetration rates, albeit experiencing a 4% decline year-to-date. Germany, on the other hand, witnessed a 7% year-on-year increase, but YTD sales still lag behind by 20%.
China continued its impressive streak with another record-breaking month in September 2024, surpassing 1.1 million EV sales for the second consecutive month. Chinese manufacturers are expanding their reach globally, with strong exports to other Asian countries and Latin America. Despite impending tariffs on BEV exports to the EU starting in November 2024, Chinese manufacturers like BYD are exploring options to mitigate the impact.
In the US & Canada market, growth remained steady at 10% year-to-date, with notable achievements such as GM’s sales of Chevrolet Equinox and the introduction of Sierra EV and EX30 models. While Toyota faced delays in its US facility, other OEMs like Ford and Vinfast also adjusted their plans throughout the year.
