Gas-only cars fall below 50% of global new car sales for the first time

In the first half of 2026, gasoline-only vehicles made up 49% of global new-car sales, down from 73% in 2021 — the first time on record below half. Battery-electric sales rose 12% to 6.87 million units (17% share), while conventional hybrids grew 10% to 7.27 million (18%).

• Gas-only share fell from 52% to 49% of the global market in one year
• Battery-electric vehicles: 6.87 million units, 17% share, up 12%
• Hybrids outsold EVs: 7.27 million units and 18% of the market
• Gas-only sales dropped 26% in China and 13% in Europe