IEA forecasts global EV sales to hit 30% of car market this year due to current crisis

The International Energy Agency (IEA) sees continued momentum in global electric vehicle (EV) sales amid the energy crisis stemming from conflict in the Middle East, noting that rising fuel prices are making battery-powered cars more attractive to buyers in many regions.

According to the latest edition of the IEA's annual report, EV sales are expected to reach 23 million units this year, accounting for nearly 30% of all new vehicles sold globally.

This follows a 20% growth in global EV sales in 2025, exceeding 20 million units, equivalent to a quarter of all new cars sold.

“EV sales set new records in close to 100 countries last year. The growing popularity of EVs has marked a major shift for car markets and the energy system as a whole – and it is providing some relief now amid the largest oil supply shock in history,” said IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol. “Looking ahead, the falls we have seen in battery prices and the potential policy responses to the current global energy crisis are set to provide further momentum in EV markets.”