Global Sales of Combustion Engine Cars: A Turning Point
The global transition towards sustainable transportation is gaining momentum, and recent data suggests a significant shift away from traditional combustion engine vehicles. Sales of these cars have reached their peak and are now declining, paving the way for electric vehicles (EVs) and other low-carbon alternatives.
As the chart shows, global sales of combustion engine cars peaked in 2018, according to data from the International Energy Agency (IEA). Bloomberg New Energy Finance estimates an earlier peak, in 2017.
While combustion engine vehicle sales are waning, the electric car market is experiencing rapid growth. This rising trend indicates a broader move toward a more sustainable automotive landscape.
Sales data from the International Energy Agency, Global EV Outlook 2024. Electric car sales include fully battery-electric and plug-in hybrids.