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New Passenger Car Sales by Country in Europe 2024

New Passenger Car Sales by Country in Europe 2024

Economics & FinanceMarch 26, 2026

The process of observing an entire continent collectively responding to the prospect of new car purchases is complex. Europe does not constitute a single market; rather, it comprises numerous distinct narratives, each influenced by local economies, fuel prices, government incentives, cultural preferences, and the ongoing transition to electric vehicles. The infographic, based on OICA’s 2024 new passenger car sales data, provides a snapshot of European society, revealing a landscape more intricate and dynamic than initial impressions might suggest.

In 2024, the combined European market—including the EU 27 member states, EFTA nations, and the United Kingdom—recorded approximately 12,963,614 new passenger car sales. This figure represents a modest 0.9% increase compared to 2023, when the region reported just under 12.85 million sales. While this suggests stability at first glance, significant disparities exist beneath the aggregate number: one country experienced a 41.7% decline, while another achieved a 16.1% increase. Some markets reached post-pandemic highs, while others continue to recover from COVID-19. To better understand these patterns, the following analysis transitions to a country-by-country examination, highlighting the complexity behind the overarching statistics.

Germany — 2,817,331 Units (-1.0%)

Germany remains Europe’s largest car market, a position it has held for decades, with 2,817,331 new passenger car registrations in 2024. This figure represents approximately 26% of all EU registrations, indicating that one in every four cars sold in the European Union was sold in Germany. However, the German market declined by 1.0% year over year, reflecting structural rather than seasonal challenges.

Germany’s automotive sector, which includes major manufacturers such as Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche, faced challenges stemming from political uncertainty, a sluggish economy, and a rapid transition to electric vehicles that outpaced consumer purchasing power. The approach to the federal elections in February 2025 and the uncertainty around the coalition complicated long-term business planning. Average CO2 emissions from new German cars increased for the second consecutive year, reaching 117 g/km in 2024, up from 106 g/km in 2022. This trend indicates a consumer preference for larger, heavier vehicles over smaller electric models, contrasting with broader European efforts toward electrification.

Germany recorded 2,817,331 new passenger car sales in 2024, ranking first in all of Europe.
Sales declined by 1.0% year over year, to 2,844,609 units in 2023.
Germany accounted for 26% of total EU new-car registrations in 2018.
Average CO2 emissions from new German cars rose to 117 g/km, up for the second year in a row.
Political and economic uncertainty weighed on consumer confidence heading into 2025.

United Kingdom — 1,952,778 Units (+2.6%)

Although the United Kingdom is no longer a member of the European Union, it continues to play a significant role in the European automotive sector. In 2024, the UK market recorded 1,952,778 new passenger car sales, a 2.6% increase, positioning the UK as one of the strongest-performing large markets. This growth was driven by the implementation of strict new emission requirements, which compelled manufacturers to prioritize electric vehicle sales. The potential for substantial fines for failing to meet zero-emission vehicle targets further accelerated EV adoption, contributing to the overall market’s positive performance.

The scale of the UK’s automotive market remains significant, especially as compared to its pre-pandemic performance. While annual British car sales once regularly exceeded 2.3 million units, the 2024 tally of 1.95 million highlights that recovery still lags behind pre-pandemic levels. Compared with Germany’s market decline, the UK’s growth illustrates relative resilience and adaptability, particularly in emphasizing electric vehicle adoption.

The UK posted 1,952,778 new passenger car sales in 2024, ranking second in Europe.
Sales grew by 2.6% from 2023’s 1,903,054 units, driven by aggressive EV adoption.
Strict zero-emission vehicle mandates pushed manufacturers and consumers alike toward electric models.
The UK remains below its pre-pandemic sales peak of more than 2.3 million units per year.
The British market was one of the brightest spots among Europe’s top five in terms of year-over-year growth.

France — 1,718,412 Units (-3.2%)

France ranked third in Europe with 1,718,412 new passenger car sales in 2024, representing a 3.2% decline from 1,774,722 units in 2023, and trailing both Germany and the UK in new sales and growth rate. Among Europe’s top three markets, France performed the weakest. While German and UK consumers showed varied responses to electrification and economic pressures, France’s demand was distinctly constrained by household budgets and wavering enthusiasm for electrification incentives, as reflected by a 20.7% fall in battery electric vehicle sales in December 2024. The story of France, after the UK, provides insight into markets under acute transitional pressures.

You might wonder: how does a market of 67 million people, with one of the world’s strongest automotive industries — Renault and Stellantis both call France home — lose ground? The answer is complicated. Transitional fatigue is real. When consumers are being pushed toward EVs, but prices remain high, and charging infrastructure remains uneven, some simply wait. And waiting means fewer sales. France’s 2024 result is, in many ways, the story of a market in the middle of a very difficult transformation.

France recorded 1,718,412 new passenger car sales in 2024, ranking third in Europe.
Sales fell 3.2% to 1,774,722 units in 2023, the steepest decline among Europe’s top three markets.
Battery electric vehicle registrations fell 20.7% in December 2024, reflecting choppy consumer demand.
Renault and Stellantis, both headquartered in France, faced significant pressure in their domestic markets.
Consumer uncertainty over EV incentives and charging infrastructure contributed to the slowdown.

Italy — 1,559,229 Units (-0.5%)

Italy, the fourth-largest car market in Europe, demonstrated notable stability in 2024, with 1,559,229 new passenger car sales, a marginal 0.5% decrease from 1,567,151 units in 2023. As we move from France to Italy, we observe a market that appears to have stabilized following the disruptions of the pandemic years. Italian consumers continue to favor traditional fuel types, with petrol-powered vehicles (including hybrids) comprising 68.4% of new registrations in 2024, indicating a reluctance to transition rapidly to alternative powertrains. It is interesting that there is a tension between its industrial ambitions and its consumer behavior. Stellantis — which owns Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia — is deeply embedded in Italian automotive culture. Yet Italy’s new-car CO2 emissions were among the highest in the EU, hovering near 120 g/km, at the upper end of the EU average. The Italian market is not racing toward electrification; it is walking, carefully, while keeping one eye on the economic landscape.

Italy recorded 1,559,229 new passenger car sales in 2024, down just 0.5% from 2023.
Petrol cars, including hybrids, accounted for 68.4% of all new registrations in Italy in 2024.
Italy’s new car CO2 emissions were among the highest in Europe, approaching 120 g/km.
The Italian market showed remarkable stability after years of post-pandemic fluctuation.
Stellantis brands, including Fiat and Alfa Romeo, anchor Italy’s domestic automotive identity.

Spain — 1,016,885 Units (+7.1%)

Spain was the good news story of Europe. Continuing our journey across the continent, Spain demonstrated the strongest performance among Europe’s top five markets in 2024, with 1,016,885 new passenger car registrations, representing a 7.1% increase from 949,362 in 2023. This growth was supported by robust domestic consumer confidence, government vehicle renewal incentives, and a tourism-driven economy that maintained healthy employment levels. In December 2024, Spanish registrations increased by 28.8% year over year, highlighting the market’s significant momentum. You’re powerful. The country is a major vehicle manufacturing hub, producing everything from SEAT models to Ford Kuga crossovers at plants scattered across Catalonia, Castile, and Valencia. When domestic sales grow at 7%, that has a ripple effect across the entire supply chain. Spain breaking through the one million unit barrier in 2024 was a milestone worth celebrating — and the infographic you are looking at makes that achievement unmistakably clear.

Spain sold 1,016,885 new passenger cars in 2024, up 7.1% from 949,362 in 2023.
Spain was the strongest performer among Europe’s top-five markets in 2024.
December 2024 alone saw Spanish registrations surge 28.8% year over year.
Spain surpassed the symbolic one-million-unit milestone for annual passenger car sales.
Strong consumer confidence, government vehicle renewal incentives, and a resilient labor market drove growth.

The Challengers: Poland, Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, and Austria

Poland — 551,568 Units (+16.1%)

Poland’s 16.1% growth rate in 2024 stands out as the highest among large European car markets. The country recorded 551,568 new passenger car sales, a substantial increase from 475,032 in 2023. This rapid growth is driven by ongoing economic development, a growing middle class with rising disposable incomes, and the need to replace an aging vehicle fleet. The transition from older vehicles to new models at scale has contributed to this significant expansion.

Historically, Poland’s car sales were suppressed during the pandemic years. The current rebound reflects a combination of delayed recovery, genuine new demand, and Poland’s strengthening position within the European economy. Brands such as SEAT, Toyota, and Volkswagen recorded significant sales volumes in Poland in 2024, underscoring the market’s upward trajectory.

Poland sold 551,568 new passenger cars in 2024, ranking fifth in Europe.
Growth of 16.1% was the fastest among all major European markets that year.
A growing middle class and rising disposable income are fueling sustained demand for new vehicles.
An aging national vehicle fleet is accelerating replacement demand across Polish households.
Poland’s result represents both a delayed pandemic rebound and genuine new market expansion.

Belgium — 448,277 Units (-6.0%)

Belgium represents an outlier among Western European markets. Despite hosting European Union institutions and a highly urbanized, high-income population, Belgium’s new-car market contracted by 6.0% in 2024, from 476,675 to 448,277 units. Previously, Belgium had been among the stronger performers during the early post-pandemic recovery, but this trend reversed in 2024. Structural reforms to Belgium’s historically generous company car tax regime introduced uncertainty and reduced fleet vehicle purchases, leading to an immediate impact on total sales.

Belgium recorded 448,277 new passenger car sales in 2024, down 6.0% year over year.
Belgium ranked sixth in Europe by total sales volume in 2024.
Corporate fleet buying — historically a large share of Belgian car sales — slowed significantly in 2024.
Belgium was one of the three biggest market decliners among EU nations in 2024, alongside Sweden and Finland.
Tax regime uncertainty dampened purchase decisions from business buyers throughout the year.

Netherlands — 381,227 Units (+3.1%)

The Netherlands experienced a notable recovery in 2024, with 381,227 new passenger car registrations, representing a 3.1% increase from 369,631 in 2023. The Dutch market has consistently been a leader in electrification, with strong EV adoption supported by well-developed charging infrastructure and ongoing government incentives. Additionally, the Netherlands maintains one of the highest shares of lightweight passenger cars in Europe, influenced by a vehicle tax structure based on unladen weight.

The Netherlands posted 381,227 new passenger car sales in 2024, up 3.1% from 369,631 in 2023.
The Dutch market ranks seventh in Europe by sales volume.
A well-developed charging infrastructure has consistently supported strong EV adoption rates.
The Netherlands has one of the highest shares of low-weight vehicles in Europe, driven by weight-based taxation.
Consumer confidence and steady economic performance underpinned the year’s positive result.

Sweden — 269,582 Units (-7.0%)

Sweden experienced a 7.0% decline in new passenger car sales in 2024, decreasing from 289,820 to 269,582 units. This contraction is notable given Sweden’s status as a leader in electric vehicle adoption, with average CO2 emissions from new cars among the lowest in Europe at 62 g/km. The decline is primarily attributed to the government’s reduction of EV purchase subsidies in 2022 and 2023, which removed a significant consumer incentive. As a result, overall sales volume decreased despite continued improvements in vehicle emissions.

Sweden sold 269,582 new passenger cars in 2024, down 7.0% from 289,820 in 2023.
Despite the decline in volume, Sweden maintained the lowest average CO2 emissions in Europe at 62 g/km.
The withdrawal of EV purchase subsidies in recent years directly contributed to the 2024 sales drop.
Sweden ranked eighth in Europe in total new-car sales in 2024.
Swedish buyers continued to favor heavily electrified vehicles even as overall volumes fell.

Austria — 253,789 Units (+6.1%)

Austria achieved one of the most notable growth rates among Western European markets in 2024, with 253,789 new passenger car registrations, representing a 6.1% increase from 239,150 in 2023. This performance places Austria alongside Spain as one of the EU’s leading growth markets. Austrian consumers, characterized by relative affluence, demonstrate a strong preference for SUVs and premium vehicles, which have maintained stable demand despite economic uncertainty. Austria’s geographic location and effective dealership infrastructure have contributed to sustained buyer engagement.

Austria recorded 253,789 new passenger car sales in 2024, up 6.1% from 239,150 in 2023.
Austria ranked ninth in the EU by sales volume in 2024.
Austria matched Spain as one of two EU markets showing more than 6% growth among Western European nations.
Austrian consumers demonstrate a strong preference for premium and SUV segments.
Stable employment and household incomes supported robust consumer spending on new vehicles.

Mid-Tier Markets: Switzerland, Czechia, Portugal, Denmark, and Romania

Switzerland — 239,535 Units (-5.0%)

Switzerland, as an EFTA member, sits just outside the EU but is very much part of the European automotive conversation. In Switzerland, an EFTA member, remains a significant participant in the European automotive sector. In 2024, Switzerland registered 239,535 new passenger cars, marking a 5.0% decline from 252,214 in 2023. Despite Swiss consumers being among the wealthiest globally, economic challenges such as a strong franc, which raised import costs, and inflation, which affected household decisions, contributed to the decline. Historically, Switzerland’s annual registrations have exceeded 300,000 units, indicating substantial potential for future recovery. member and ranks as one of Europe’s wealthiest non-EU car markets.

A historically strong Swiss franc made vehicle imports relatively expensive, pressuring buyer demand.
Switzerland’s long-run average of over 300,000 annual sales suggests the market has not yet fully recovered.
Swiss consumers tend to favor premium European and German brands heavily.

Czechia — 231,597 Units (+4.6%)

Czechia, home to Škoda Auto, a leading mass-market brand, recorded 231,597 new passenger car sales in 2024, representing a 4.6% increase from 221,419 in 2023. The Czech Republic has established itself as a major vehicle manufacturing hub and ranks among the top countries of origin for cars registered throughout Europe. This industrial capacity influences consumer behavior, as Czech buyers benefit from competitive pricing on domestically produced vehicles and maintain active replacement rates.

Czechia registered 231,597 new passenger cars in 2024, up 4.6% from 221,419 in 2023.
Czechia ranked tenth among EU countries by annual passenger car sales volume.
Škoda Auto, headquartered in Mlada Boleslav, anchors Czech automotive identity and feeds export volumes.
Czechia is among the top five countries of origin for cars registered across Europe.
Petrol and hybrid cars accounted for 67.5% of new registrations in the Czech Republic in 2024.

Portugal — 209,715 Units (+5.1%)

Portugal exceeded expectations in 2024 by recording 209,715 new passenger car sales, a 5.1% increase from 199,623 in 2023. The Portuguese market has been steadily recovering since the 2008 financial crisis and the subsequent austerity measures, which significantly reduced consumer spending. Currently, Portugal benefits from a revitalized tourism sector, rising wages, and government incentives to promote the adoption of electric vehicles. The share of diesel vehicles continues to decline as petrol and hybrid models become more prevalent.dels take over.

Portugal recorded 209,715 new passenger car sales in 2024, up 5.1% year-over-year.
Portugal ranked eleventh in Europe by sales volume, continuing a multi-year recovery trend.
Government EV incentives meaningfully shifted buyer behavior away from diesel.
Petrol and hybrid cars now account for the majority of new registrations in Portugal.
Portugal’s diesel share continues to decline, broadly in line with the EU-wide trend of transition.

Denmark — 173,114 Units (+0.2%)

Denmark’s new passenger car registrations remained essentially unchanged in 2024, with 173,114 units compared to 172,745 in 2023. The Danish market illustrates the effects of removing consumer subsidies, as the phase-out of the EV bonus program in previous years led to a plateau in sales. Although Danish consumers continue to purchase a significant share of electrified vehicles, the lack of financial incentives has led to a stable but stagnant market.

Denmark registered 173,114 new passenger cars in 2024, virtually unchanged from 172,745 in 2023.
Denmark ranked 12th in Europe by annual new-car sales volume.
Market flatness reflects the post-subsidy plateau following the removal of major EV purchase incentives.
Denmark has one of the highest shares of low-weight passenger cars in Europe, influenced by vehicle weight taxation.
The Danish consumer market remains mature, affluent, and oriented toward efficient, lower-emission models.

Romania — 151,105 Units (+5.6%)

Romania represents a significant case of market recovery within the European automotive sector. In 2024, Romania recorded 151,105 new passenger car sales, a 5.6% increase from 143,080 in 2023. The country maintains one of the oldest vehicle fleets in the EU, with a substantial proportion of cars over 20 years old. This situation indicates both an underserved market and considerable latent demand. Government-backed scrappage and incentive programs have gradually accelerated fleet renewal, as reflected in the recent sales data.

Romania registered 151,105 new passenger cars in 2024, up 5.6% year over year.
Romania has one of the oldest national vehicle fleets in the EU — many vehicles are over 20 years old.
A government-backed scrappage program has been gradually accelerating fleet replacement.
Romania ranked 13th in Europe in 2024 by annual new-car sales volume.
Romania posted one of the largest five-year fleet growth rates in the EU between 2018 and 2023, at 26%.

Emerging Growth Markets: Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Slovakia, and Finland

Greece — 137,075 Units (+1.9%)

Greece experienced modest growth in 2024, with 137,075 new passenger car registrations, a 1.9% increase from 134,484 in 2023. The Greek automotive market has been gradually recovering since the 2010s economic crisis, which significantly reduced consumer confidence and purchasing power. Greek consumers continue to favor petrol vehicles, with 82.7% of new registrations in 2024 being petrol-powered, the second-highest share in the EU. Electric and hybrid vehicle adoption remains limited compared to Northern European markets.

Greece sold 137,075 new passenger cars in 2024, up 1.9% from 134,484 in 2023.
Petrol vehicles account for 82.7% of new Greek registrations, the second-highest petrol share in the EU.
Greece ranks 14th in Europe in terms of annual new-car sales volume.
Electric and hybrid adoption remains lower in Greece than in most Northern and Western European markets. The Greek market is still recovering from the years of the economic crisis, which significantly suppressed car buying.

Hungary — 121,611 Units (+12.9%)

Hungary was one of the year’s genuine performers. Hungary emerged as a leading performer among mid-sized markets in 2024, achieving 12.9% growth with 121,611 new passenger car sales, up from 107,720 in 2023. The country has attracted significant foreign automotive investment in recent years, with companies such as Samsung SDI and BMW establishing or expanding production facilities. This investment has stimulated the local economy, generated employment, and increased consumer purchasing power. Additionally, Hungary’s relatively young population contributes to sustained demand for car ownership. Newer cars in 2024, up 12.9% from 107,720 in 2023.

Growth of 12.9% made Hungary one of the top-performing mid-sized markets in Europe in 2024.
Major foreign direct investment, including BMW’s new Debrecen plant, is transforming Hungary’s economic base.
Hungary ranks 15th in Europe in terms of annual new-car sales volume.
Petrol and hybrid cars accounted for 75.8% of Hungarian new registrations — one of the highest shares of petrol cars in the EU.

Ireland — 121,196 Units (-1.0%)

Ireland’s car market dipped slightly in 2024, with 121,196 new passenger car registrations — a 1.0% decline from 122,400 in 2023. Ireland is a market with a complicated relationship with car ownership. The country has significant urban-rural divides, with Dublin’s congested streets pushing some consumers toward alternatives while rural areas remain almost entirely car-dependent. Ireland’s EV adoption has been growing — aided by government grants and a rapidly expanding network of public chargers — but not rapidly enough to offset softness in the broader market.

Ireland registered 121,196 new passenger cars in 2024, down 1.0% from 122,400 in 2023.
Ireland ranked 16th in Europe by annual new-car sales volume.
A significant urban-rural transport divide shapes Irish car purchase patterns and EV adoption.
Government EV grants and expanding charging infrastructure are gradually accelerating electrification.
Irish diesel car share continues to decline as petrol and hybrid models gain market share.

Slovakia — 93,409 Units (+6.1%)

Despite its small size, Slovakia is a significant player in European automotive manufacturing, with major production facilities operated by Volkswagen, Stellantis (PSA), and Kia. In 2024, Slovak consumers purchased 93,409 new passenger cars, a 6.1% increase from 88,003 in 2023. Rising wages and improving household finances are driving increased demand for new vehicles, a trend expected to persist.

Slovakia registered 93,409 new passenger cars in 2024, up 6.1% from 88,003 in 2023.
Slovakia hosts production plants for Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Kia, making it a major EU hub for vehicle manufacturing.
Slovakia ranks 17th in Europe in terms of annual new-car sales volume.
Rising Slovak wages are translating into stronger consumer demand for new vehicles.
Petrol and hybrid cars accounted for 74.3% of new registrations in Slovakia in 2024.

Finland — 74,064 Units (-15.4%)

Finland experienced a significant decline in 2024, with new passenger car registrations falling by 15.4% from 87,502 to 74,064 units, the largest percentage decrease among EU countries that year. This outcome is linked to the previous aggressive subsidization of electric vehicle purchases, which created a temporary surge in demand. The subsequent reduction in these subsidies led to a sharp contraction in sales, underscoring the risks of relying on market growth driven by incentives.

Finland registered 74,064 new passenger cars in 2024, down a dramatic 15.4% from 87,502 in 2023.
Finland recorded the largest percentage decline among EU member states in 2024.
The sharp drop followed reductions in significant EV purchase subsidy programs in prior years.
Finland ranked 18th in Europe in 2024 by annual new-car sales volume.
Finland has historically been among Europe’s more progressive EV markets, but the removal of subsidies exposed the fragility of underlying demand.

Smaller EU Markets: Croatia, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Malta, and Cyprus

Croatia — 65,020 Units (+12.7%)

Croatia’s automotive market demonstrated renewed growth in 2024, with 65,020 new passenger car sales, a 12.7% increase from 57,694 in 2023. The country is emerging as one of Central Europe’s more dynamic small markets. Steadily rising household incomes since EU accession and the adoption of the euro have contributed to increased car purchases. In 2024, petrol and hybrid models accounted for 74.1% of new registrations in Croatia.

Croatia registered 65,020 new passenger cars in 2024, up 12.7% from 57,694 in 2023.
Croatia ranks 19th in Europe in terms of annual new-car sales volume.
Euro adoption and improved wages have accelerated consumer purchasing power across Croatia.
Petrol and hybrid cars account for 74.1% of all new Croatian vehicle registrations.
Croatia’s five-year fleet growth rate was 15% between 2018 and 2023, one of the fastest in the EU.

Bulgaria — 42,941 Units (+13.8%)

Although Bulgaria is the smallest EU market by volume in this dataset, it achieved 13.8% growth in 2024, with new passenger car sales rising from 37,724 to 42,941 units. Bulgaria has one of the lowest car ownership rates in the EU relative to income, indicating significant potential for first-time buyers. Rapid economic development, EU funding, and a growing urban professional class are driving new demand. Petrol vehicles accounted for 79.5% of new registrations, highlighting the early stage of EV adoption in the Bulgarian market.

Bulgaria sold 42,941 new passenger cars in 2024, up 13.8% from 37,724 in 2023.
Bulgaria ranks as the smallest EU market in this dataset, but one of the fastest-growing in percentage terms.
Petrol vehicles account for 79.5% of new Bulgarian registrations — the third-highest petrol share in the EU.
EU fund inflows and a developing urban economy are generating genuine first-time new car buyers.
Bulgaria’s car market has a significant long-term growth runway as income levels continue to converge toward EU averages.

Slovenia — 53,018 Units (+8.4%)

Slovenia, a small yet prosperous market, recorded 53,018 new passenger car registrations in 2024, an 8.4% increase from 48,924 in 2023. The country consistently reports one of the highest car ownership rates in the EU, with 83.2% of the population owning a car, reflecting both cultural preferences and geographic necessity. Investments in renewable energy and rising incomes are facilitating increased EV adoption. In 2024, SloIt sold 53,018 new passenger cars, up 8.4% from 48,924 in 2023.In 2023.

Slovenia has one of the highest car ownership rates in the EU, with 83.2% of the population owning a car.
Slovenia ranks among the smaller but fastest-growing markets in Central Europe.
Petrol and hybrid models account for 77.0% of new Slovenian registrations in 2024.
Strong household ownership rates reflect how deeply personal vehicle culture is embedded in Slovenian daily life.

Luxembourg — 46,659 Units (-5.0%)

Luxembourg, the smallest EU member state by area, maintains a disproportionately large car market relative to its population, influenced by cross-border workers and high wealth levels. In 2024, Luxembourg registered 46,659 new passenger cars, a 5.0% decrease from 49,105 in 2023. Historically generous EV incentives are being restructured, contributing to market softness in 2024. Luxembourg continues to have one of the highest proportions of new vehicles in its fleet.

Luxembourg registered 46,659 new passenger cars in 2024, down 5.0% from 49,105 in 2023.
Luxembourg has one of the highest proportions of new vehicles (under 5 years old) in its fleet across the EU.
Cross-border workers and expatriate populations contribute significantly to Luxembourg’s vehicle sales volumes.
The restructuring of EV purchase incentives created market uncertainty and contributed to the 2024 decline.
Luxembourg’s large-engined fleet (9.0% of the fleet) reflects high average vehicle values.

Lithuania — 30,122 Units (+8.9%)

Lithuania recorded 30,122 new passenger car sales in 2024, an 8.9% increase from 27,666 in 2023. The country is experiencing rapid economic modernization and an expanding middle class, leading to increased purchases of new vehicles over older, second-hand imports. Lithuania also demonstrated one of the fastest vehicle fleet growth rates in the EU, with a 19% increase between 2018 and 2023, a trend that persisted in 2024 and underscores its dynamic automotive market.

Lithuania registered 30,122 new passenger cars in 2024, up 8.9% from 27,666 in 2023.
Lithuania’s overall vehicle fleet grew 19% between 2018 and 2023, one of the fastest rates in the EU.
Petrol cars (including hybrids) account for 71.5% of new Lithuanian registrations.
Lithuania ranks among the fastest-growing automotive markets in the Baltic region.
The expanding urban professional class is driving sustained demand for new vehicle purchases.

Latvia — 17,329 Units (-8.4%)

Latvia experienced a notable decline in 2024, with 17,329 new passenger car registrations, an 8.4% decrease from 18,928 in 2023. The market is small and sensitive to economic fluctuations. In 2024, increased living costs and higher interest rates constrained household budgets. Latvia also possesses one of the oldest vehicle fleets in Europe, resulting in high replacement needs but limited financial capacity to meet them. Nevertheless, long-term prospects remain positive, supported by EU development funding and wage growth.

Latvia registered 17,329 new passenger cars in 2024, down 8.4% from 18,928 in 2023.
Latvia has one of the oldest vehicle fleets in the EU, with a high share of cars over 20 years old.
Rising household costs and pressure on interest rates squeezed consumer budgets throughout 2024.
Petrol vehicles accounted for 68.7% of new registrations in Latvia in 2024.
Long-term fleet renewal demand remains structurally strong despite short-term market softness.

Estonia — 25,386 Units (+11.2%)

Estonia recorded a strong recovery in 2024, with 25,386 new passenger car registrations, an 11.2% increase from 22,820 in 2023. As one of the most digitally advanced societies globally, Estonia’s consumer market reflects an innovation-oriented culture. Although EV adoption remains modest in absolute terms, it is increasing. Estonia also has the highest proportion of cars over 20 years old in the EU, creating significant pressure for fleet renewal, which is now reflected in new sales growth.

Estonia sold 25,386 new passenger cars in 2024, up 11.2% from 22,820 in 2023.
Estonia has the highest proportion of passenger cars over 20 years old among EU member states.
The urgent need to replace an aging fleet is a primary structural driver of new car demand.
Estonia’s innovation-oriented consumer culture is gradually accelerating EV adoption. Estonia ranks among the fastest-growing small markets in the Baltic region in 2024.In 2024.

Malta — 7,663 Units (+3.1%)

Malta is the EU’s smallest island nation, and in 2024, it registered 7,663 new passenger cars. Malta, the EU’s smallest island nation, registered 7,663 new passenger cars in 2024, a 3.1% increase from 7,436 in 2023. Despite its limited land area, Malta maintains a high vehicle density and one of the highest per-capita car ownership rates in the EU. The market is small in absolute terms but highly active relative to the population. Over half of Maltese passenger cars are equipped with small petrol engines, reflecting a preference for fuel-efficient vehicles suited to the island’s congested conditions.EU’s smallest new car market by volume in 2024.

More than half of all Maltese passenger cars run on small petrol engines, the highest such share in the EU.
Malta maintains a high per-capita vehicle ownership rate given its tiny geographic footprint.
Despite its small size, Malta’s market grew steadily in 2024, consistent with broader EU recovery trends.

Cyprus — 15,057 Units (+2.2%)

Cyprus registered 15,057 new passenger cars in 2024, up 2.2% from 14,740 in 2023. Cyprus registered 15,057 new passenger cars in 2024, a 2.2% increase from 14,740 in 2023. The country holds the highest petrol vehicle share in the EU, with 86.5% of new registrations being petrol-powered in 2024. This reflects an island economy characterized by limited charging infrastructure, a warm Mediterranean climate, and a consumer base with established preferences. Cyprus remains a stable, albeit small, automotive market.

Cyprus has the EU’s highest share of petrol-powered vehicles — 86.5% of new registrations in 2024 were petrol-powered.
Cyprus is one of the EU’s smaller markets by volume, but has maintained positive growth momentum.
EV charging infrastructure on the island remains relatively underdeveloped compared to continental Europe.
Cyprus’s automotive market reflects an island economy with distinct transport infrastructure constraints.

The EFTA Trio: Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland

Norway — 128,687 Units (+1.4%)

Norway occupies a unique position in the European automotive landscape. In 2024, Norway registered 128,687 new passenger cars, a 1.4% increase from 126,953 in 2023. Notably, 88.9% of all new cars sold in Norway in 2024 were fully electric, a proportion unmatched globally. This achievement is the result of decades of government policy, including tax exemptions, subsidized tolls, and parking incentives, which have made EV ownership financially attractive. Norway aims to achieve 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2025 and is on track to meet this target.

Norway registered 128,687 new passenger cars in 2024, up 1.4% from 126,953 in 2023.
An extraordinary 88.9% of all new Norwegian car sales in 2024 were fully electric vehicles.
Of Norway’s 128,687 new registrations, approximately 114,400 units were battery-electric.
Norway aims to achieve 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2025, a target it nearly reached in 2024.
Decades of tax exemptions, toll subsidies, and parking incentives have made EV ownership compelling for Norwegian buyers.

Iceland — 10,233 Units (-41.7%)

Iceland experienced the most significant decline in the 2024 European dataset, with new passenger car registrations falling by 41.7% from 17,543 to 10,233 units. This sharp decrease followed an artificial spike in 2023, which was driven by pent-up supply meeting demand after pandemic-related shortages. Once this backlog was resolved, 2024 figures appeared substantially lower by comparison. Additionally, Iceland’s economy, which is heavily dependent on tourism and fisheries, faced challenges from global inflation and rising interest rates that constrained household budgets.

Iceland registered just 10,233 new passenger cars in 2024, down a staggering 41.7% from 17,543 in 2023.
Iceland’s collapse was the largest year-over-year percentage decline among European countries in 2024.
The drop partly reflects the unwinding of a pent-up supply-driven spike seen in 2023.
Iceland’s small, tourism-dependent economy was exposed to global inflation and rising borrowing costs throughout 2024.
Iceland remains one of the world’s leading EV markets per capita despite the sharp decline in volume.

Non-EU Europe: Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine

Russia — 1,550,249 Units

Russia is impossible to ignore in any European automotive analysis, even if its presence remains a significant factor in European automotive analysis, despite complexities arising from the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to OICA data, Russia recorded 1,550,249 new passenger car sales in 2024, representing a substantial recovery from 1,049,917 units in 2023, a nearly 48% increase. Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, most Western automotive brands withdrew from the Russian market, leading to a surge in Chinese brands such as Haval, Chery, and Geely. The Russian automotive market is undergoing rapid restructuring, with Chinese manufacturers emerging as primary beneficiaries. from 1,049,917 in 2023.

Western automotive brands largely withdrew from Russia following the 2022 Ukraine invasion.
Chinese brands, including Haval, Chery, and Geely, have aggressively expanded to fill the market vacuum.
Russia’s automotive market reached a historic low of 629,923 units in 2022 before beginning its current rebound.
Russia historically ranked among Europe’s largest car markets before sanctions and supply chain disruptions reshaped it.

Turkey — 980,341 Units (+1.3%)

Turkey is an automotive force in its own right — and in 2024, it sold 980,3Turkey is a significant player in the automotive sector, recording 980,341 new passenger car sales in 2024, a 1.3% increase from 967,341 in 2023. This figure represents an all-time high for annual sales in Turkey. The country is notable as both a major vehicle producer and a large consumer market. The Turkish electric vehicle sector is expanding rapidly, driven by the domestically developed TOGG brand and a $5 billion government support package. EV sales in Turkey increased by 47.1% in 2024, accounting for 10.1% of the market.341 in 2023.

Turkey reached an all-time record for annual passenger car sales in 2024.
Domestic EV brand TOGG grew 53.9% in 2024, benefiting from a 5 billion dollar government support package.
Turkey’s EV segment surged 47.1% in 2024, capturing a 10.1% share of new-car sales.
Turkey is simultaneously one of Europe’s largest vehicle production centers and one of its most dynamic consumer markets.

Ukraine — 69,599 Units (+14.4%)

In 2024, Ukraine demonstrated resilience amid ongoing conflict, registering 69,599 new passenger cars, an increase of approximately 14% from 60,862 in 2023. The vast majority of new vehicles (95.5%) were imported, reflecting the near-total loss of domestic production capacity due to the war. The most popular brands were Toyota, Renault, and Volkswagen. August 2024 saw a sales peak, driven by rumors of an impending 15% vehicle tax, highlighting the continued fragility of economic confidence during wartime.

Ukraine registered 69,599 new passenger cars in 2024, up from 60,862 in 2023.
Ukraine’s historic sales peak was 599,985 units in 2008, underscoring how dramatically the war has suppressed the market.
95.5% of all new Ukrainian vehicle registrations in 2024 were imported.
Toyota, Renault, and Volkswagen were the top-selling brands in Ukraine in 2024.
A spike in August 2024 sales was triggered by rumors of an incoming vehicle import tax — a reflection of wartime economic anxiety.

Big Picture: What Does the Data Really Tell Us?

Step back and look at the full infographic. A comprehensive review of the data reveals that Europe is undergoing its most significant automotive transformation in a century. The EU recorded 10,632,381 new passenger car sales in 2024, a stable figure but still below pre-pandemic potential. Since the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, Europe has lost nearly 2.9 million units of annual demand, a gap that remains unclosed. Some of this lost demand may be permanent, as urban millennials increasingly delay or forgo car ownership. unevenly. Norway is already there. Sweden, the Netherlands, and Germany have made serious inroads. But in Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria, and other Southern and Eastern markets, EV adoption is still overwhelmingly petrol-powered, with EV shares in the low single digits. The EU average battery-electric share stood at 13.6% in 2024 — meaningful but not transformative. The EU’s target of 100% zero-emission new car sales by 2035 still requires a dramatic acceleration that the current trajectory does not guarantee.

SUVs now represent 48% of all new EU passenger car registrations — nearly one in two cars sold in Europe is an SUV.

SUVs accounted for 48% of all new EU passenger car registrations in 2024, indicating that nearly half of the new cars sold in Europe are SUVs or crossovers. This shift has significant implications, as heavier vehicles contribute to higher emissions, increased road wear, and greater energy demand for electric vehicles. While the market is transitioning to greener powertrains, the trend toward larger, heavier vehicles poses challenges that policymakers are only beginning to address. Poland surged. Finland collapsed. Norway electrified. Germany stagnated. Ukraine fought on. Russia was reshaped by geopolitics. Every single country in this infographic is telling a different story, and together they form a portrait of a continent navigating extraordinary change — economically, technologically, and politically — one new car sale at a time.