Electric vehicle (EV) sales reached an unprecedented high in September 2024, with 1.7 million units sold globally. The figure surpassed the previous record set in December 2023 by 150,000 units, demonstrating strong momentum in the global transition to electric mobility.

According to Rho Motion, China continued to dominate the market, accounting for approximately 65% of global sales with 1.1 million units sold in September. This marks the second consecutive month China has exceeded the million-unit threshold, building on its August record of 1 million sales.

“This record-breaking month of EV sales brings new hope to the industry,” stated Charles Lester, Data Manager at Rho Motion. “While the electrification of transport seems inevitable, the recent slowdown of sales in many parts of the world has sewn seeds of doubt which can now start to be swept aside. However, the regional disparities are astonishing, with China alone accounting for well over half the global total.”

Regional EV adoption rates in 2024 have shown significant variation across different markets. As of September 2024, global EV sales reached 11.5 million units, marking a 22% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

China led the charge, with 7.2 million units sold, a notable 35% year-over-year growth. In contrast, Europe, including the EU, EFTA, and UK, saw a slight decline, with 2.2 million units sold, reflecting a 4% drop. Meanwhile, the North American market, encompassing the United States (U.S.) and Canada, reported 1.3 million units sold, a 10% increase.

Other regions around the world, collectively termed the “Rest of the World,” also saw a significant rise, with 0.9 million units sold, representing a 25% year-over-year growth. These figures highlight the diverse regional dynamics of EV adoption, with some markets accelerating rapidly while others face challenges.

The European market shows mixed signals, with battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales up 12% year-over-year in September, while plug-in hybrid (PHEV) sales declined by 12%. Germany’s market grew 7% compared to September 2023, though year-to-date sales remain down 20%. Norway maintains high EV penetration rates despite a 4% volume decrease this year.

The U.S. and Canada continue to demonstrate consistent growth, with a 10% increase year-to-date. General Motors (GM) has made significant strides, selling nearly 10,000 Chevrolet Equinox EVs in Q3 2024 and producing over 40,000 units in the first eight months of the year. The automaker also launched sales of its Sierra EV, while Volvo introduced the EX30 to the market.

Despite new tariffs set to take effect in November 2024 on Chinese EV exports to the EU, Chinese automakers are adapting their strategies. Many companies are expected to absorb some of the costs, while others, such as BYD, are exploring plans to establish manufacturing plants within Europe. Chinese automakers continue to expand their presence in other markets, particularly in Asia and Latin America.

Read More: BYD Breaks Monthly Sales Record With Over 400,000 EV Sales In September 2024

As the latest data suggests while some markets face challenges, the global EV industry continues to show robust growth. The record-breaking September sales indicate that recent concerns about slowing EV adoption may be overstated, particularly when viewed from a global perspective.

Want to learn more about EV? Thinking of buying an EV? Head over to EV.com and discover more.

EV.com is the world’s 1st Electric Vehicle (EV) marketplace that aims to promote zero-emission mobility by providing a platform for consumers to learn about, compare, and purchase EVs.