This week, the electric vehicle sector showcased its relentless momentum, with major milestones across global sales, product innovation, infrastructure, and market expansion.
Here’s what you should know:
1. Global EV Sales Surge 29% Year-Over-Year The electric vehicle market is accelerating at a blistering pace: Global sales of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles soared 29% in March compared to last year, with 4.1 million units sold in Q1 2025. China led the charge for now with a 36% increase, while Europe posted 22% growth. North America also saw a 16% rise, despite policy headwinds and new tariffs that it is implementing to gain a more competitive playing field. This robust growth underscores the sector’s resilience and global momentum.
2. U.S. EV Market Grows 11.4% in Q1, Showing Momentum Nearly 300,000 new EVs hit U.S. roads in the first quarter, marking an 11.4% year-over-year increase and pushing EVs to 7.5% of all new vehicle sales. General Motors nearly doubled its EV sales, overtaking Ford and Hyundai, while Honda and Acura made strong debuts. Tesla’s U.S. sales dropped 9% from last year as more competitors enter the market.
3. Xpeng Launches 2025 X9 MPV, Eyes Global Expansion Chinese automaker Xpeng unveiled its 2025 X9 MPV, a high-tech seven-seater built on an 800-volt platform with ultra-fast charging (10–80% in as little as 11.7 minutes). The X9 is set for a European launch in the second half of 2025, with plans to expand into Southeast Asia and the Middle East. This move signals China’s ambition to capture EV market share with competitively priced models.
4. NACS Charging Port Goes Mainstream at New York Auto Show A pivotal shift in EV charging standards is underway: Every new electric vehicle at this week’s New York Auto Show featured the Tesla-backed NACS charging port, including models from Subaru, Kia, Lucid, and Hyundai. This transition promises to dramatically expand charging access, allowing non-Tesla drivers to tap into the Supercharger network and making EV ownership more practical for the masses. Huge advancement!
5. Subaru and Kia Debut New EVs, Hyundai INSTER Wins Award Subaru debuted its all-new 2026 Trailseeker and an updated Solterra, both boasting improved range and tech, while Kia revealed the 2026 EV4 sedan with up to 330 miles of range. Meanwhile, Hyundai’s INSTER clinched a 2025 Electric Vehicle Award, highlighting the brand’s continued innovation and leadership in the segment. The influx of new models and accolades signals fierce competition and rapid product evolution across the industry.
The Bottom Line: Despite policy turbulence and shifting incentives, the EV industry is charging ahead globally, with surging sales, landmark product launches, and critical infrastructure improvements. The race for market dominance is heating up, and the pace of innovation shows no signs of slowing.
