In a notable shift towards sustainable mobility, the European Union witnessed a remarkable surge in the number of battery-only electric passenger cars, reaching an impressive 3.0 million in 2022. This figure marks a substantial 55% increase compared to the previous year's count of 1.9 million, as reported by Eurostat.
The data highlights a robust upward trend in the adoption of battery-only electric vehicles in EU countries. The most significant annual increase occurred between 2019 and 2020, soaring by 85%, followed by a commendable 78% rise in 2021 compared to 2020. Over the broader timeline from 2013 to 2022, the share of battery-only electric passenger cars in the total number of passenger cars experienced exponential growth, climbing from a modest 0.02% in 2013 to an impressive 1.19% in 2022.
Anticipating a significant shift towards sustainable practices, the overall share of battery-only electric passenger cars is expected to witness substantial growth in the years leading up to the 2035 EU ban on the sale of new combustion engine cars. This pivotal decision aligns with the Sustainable Development Indicator, focusing on the reduction of CO2 emissions from new passenger cars.
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Examining the broader spectrum of passenger cars – encompassing those running on petrol, diesel, hybrids, or various alternative energy sources, including battery-only vehicles – reveals an overall growth trend. The total number of passenger cars in the EU surged by 14% from 2013, reaching 253 million in 2022.
Additionally, a closer look at the age distribution of passenger cars within EU members’ reveals intriguing patterns. Luxembourg leads with the highest percentage of new passenger cars (aged 2 years and less), accounting for 18% of the total passenger cars in the country. Germany and Sweden closely follow with 15%, while Belgium, Ireland, and Austria each boast a 13% share. On the other end of the spectrum, the oldest passenger cars (20 years or older) dominate in Estonia (34%), Romania (31%), Finland (30%), Poland (29%), and Portugal (26%).
This data showcases a dynamic and evolving automotive landscape in the EU, reflecting a growing preference for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation options. The surge in battery-only electric cars underscores a collective commitment towards achieving environmental sustainability and meeting ambitious targets set for the near future.