The European automobile market saw a 12.5% increase in new car registrations in March 2026 compared to the same month last year, according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA). The growth was primarily fueled by a strong performance in the electric vehicle segment.
Battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations surged by 28% year-on-year, capturing a market share of 15.2% in March. This marks a significant acceleration from the 12.8% share recorded in March 2025. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) also grew, but at a slower pace of 6.5%.
Among major markets, Germany posted a 9.8% rise in registrations, while France saw an 11.2% increase. Italy and Spain recorded even stronger growth, with gains of 14.5% and 16.3% respectively. The UK market, however, showed a more modest 5.1% uptick.
ACEA attributed the overall growth to easing supply chain constraints and increased consumer interest in electrified models, supported by government incentives in several countries. The total number of new cars registered in the EU, EFTA, and UK reached 1.2 million units in March.
