The European market has just experienced the three worst months in its history with 2.2 million vehicles sold, according to the Association of European Manufacturers (ACEA).
If the logistical problems, the shortage of semi-conductors, the closure of the factories of Ukrainian suppliers remain very present, the European automobile market continues however to change with the continuation of the breakthrough of sales of hybrid and electric vehicles. It is true that some of the manufacturers, faced with the shortage of components, have favored the most profitable vehicles, starting with electric cars.
At a time when diesel sales plummeted by 30% in the first half of the year in Europe with 378,000 units, registrations of hybrid cars represent almost a quarter of the market against 20% at the start of 2021. In total, these are 563,000 vehicles sold , an increase of 5.3% over one year.
53.4% over one year for 100% electric
In detail, 100% electric cars also continue to grow and represent 10% of the market, with 224,000 units sold in the first quarter, an increase of 53.4% over one year. The only downside, plug-in hybrid cars, on the contrary, remained on a downward trend that began at the end of 2021 (-5.3% over one year, 8.9% of the market), particularly in France and Germany.
This market for electric vehicles is also tending to expand in several countries such as Spain, Romania and Poland. Only Italy has seen its sales of electric cars decline, but motorists are waiting for new bonuses on purchase.
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Faced with these shortages, manufacturers have given priority to equipping their most profitable models, including electrified models. But these new engines were also overtaken in the 4th quarter by the shortage of electronic chips, preventing them from continuing the unprecedented growth recorded in 2020.