Global EV sales hit 1.8 million in May as Europe races ahead

Global electric vehicle (EV) sales reached 1.8 million units in May 2026, according to data from Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. This figure brings the total sales for the first five months of 2026 to 7.5 million vehicles. Europe demonstrated particularly strong growth, with sales in the region increasing by 28% year-on-year in May. This surge in European demand was attributed to a combination of government incentives and a wider selection of available EV models. China, the world's largest EV market, also saw continued growth, with sales up 15% compared to May 2025. In contrast, the United States experienced a more modest increase of 8% in EV sales for the same period. Industry analysts at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence noted that the overall global market expansion is being driven by increasing consumer awareness of environmental benefits and advancements in battery technology, leading to longer ranges and reduced charging times. The sustained sales momentum suggests that EVs are solidifying their position as a significant segment of the automotive industry, with projections indicating continued upward trends throughout the remainder of 2026.