Electric Vehicles Gain Ground with Astonishing Growth
Europe has witnessed a significant transformation in its automotive landscape, with Electric Vehicles (EVs) making remarkable strides. Out of the 900,000 cars sold across 28 European markets, an impressive 196,000 of them, constituting 22% of the total, are battery-powered. This staggering shift marks a 102% increase in EV registrations.
While EVs are on the rise, petrol-powered cars remain the most sought-after in Europe, capturing 53% of registrations. This diverse market exhibits exceptional growth in EV demand, with countries such as Belgium, Greece, and Luxembourg showing significant increases of 224%, 183%, and 164%, respectively. Germany, with its 171% rise in EV registrations, accounts for a substantial 44% of Europe’s total EV registrations in August.
Europe’s Top 10 Best-Selling Cars for 2023:
01. Tesla Model Y
With a remarkable 169,420 sales so far, witnessing a 216% YoY growth, Tesla’s Model Y maintains its global dominance in the EV market and appears poised to secure a podium finish in European sales for 2023. It notably concluded the first half of the year as the best-selling car and aspires to retain this prestigious position.
02. Dacia Sandero
Continuing its competitive performance, the Dacia Sandero stands strong with 154,538 sales, marking a 20% YoY growth. Its exceptional value for money has resonated with buyers, especially amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The spacious interior and commendable handling further bolster its appeal.
03. Volkswagen T-Roc
As a consistently popular choice in Europe, the Volkswagen T-Roc sustains its appeal. With 145,131 sales and a 19% YoY growth, this well-rounded crossover even outperforms the venerable Volkswagen Golf. A recent facelift further enhanced its interior quality, addressing one of the few criticisms.
04. Peugeot 208
Despite a 2022 dominance, the Peugeot 208 supermini with 135,187 sales has yet to reach the same pace in 2023. Nevertheless, it remains a strong contender and is expected to challenge for a podium spot later in the year, as Stellantis addresses logistics issues.
05. Opel/Vauxhall Corsa
The affordable sibling of the Peugeot 208 enjoys robust demand. A refreshed model is anticipated in the coming months, featuring Vauxhall’s distinctive Vizor front end and a range expansion for the Corsa Electric, potentially propelling it up the charts.
06. Renault Clio
Renault’s popular supermini boasts 129,115 sales, demonstrating a remarkable 44% YoY growth, surpassing the Volkswagen Golf in sales. The model’s fifth generation will be exclusively available with a hybrid powertrain in the UK, with a broader mid-life refresh and design overhaul to benefit all of Europe. A new interior and simplified options range are also on the horizon.
07. Toyota Yaris Cross
The Yaris Cross enjoys popularity due to affordability, Toyota’s legendary reliability, and its hybrid nature that can achieve an impressive 60mpg with judicious driving.
08. Volkswagen Golf
While historically favoured in Europe, the Volkswagen Golf has slipped in the rankings. With 118,351 sales and a modest 2% YoY growth, its descent seems ongoing.
09. Abarth/Fiat 500
As one of the most iconic small cars, the Fiat 500, which has been on sale since 2007, shows no signs of discontinuation. It recently gained an electric sibling with a next-generation electric Abarth 500 hot hatch in the pipeline.
10. Dacia Duster
The Dacia Duster, capturing 109,804 sales and a 10% YoY growth, offers a capable, hardy, and affordable option. It is set to be joined by the Dacia Bigster, a C-segment SUV leading Dacia’s foray into larger, more profitable segments.
The European automotive market for 2023 reflects the growing influence of EVs and the continued appeal of reliable, cost-effective models. As the year unfolds, these best-sellers are expected to further evolve in response to market dynamics.
Please note that the data presented is based on available information and may vary as new sales figures emerge throughout the year.
