In 2018, global roads carried over 5 million electric vehicles. This count shows a shift in car tastes and progress in battery work, firm government help, and plans for cleaner air.
The Rise of Electric Vehicle Ownership
Electric vehicles come as battery-only models or as plug-in hybrids. Data show that by the end of 2018, sales reached about 5 million units. This number is much higher than it was just a few years ago. New EV sales in 2018 were twice those in 2017. EVs made up around 2.1% of total passenger car sales worldwide. Sales of battery-only cars grew as their driving range improved and more charging points appeared.
Regional Leaders and Market Trends
Top markets drove this growth. China, Europe, and the United States led the sales.
- In China, nearly half of all new plug-in vehicle sales came from this market. Government support and more charging points helped the market grow.
- Across Europe, strong car rules and buyer help spurred EV sales. In Norway, electric cars made up a high share of new vehicle sales, with many cars per person.
- In the United States, sales picked up in areas like California. State rules for no-emission cars helped bring in more buyers.
Some regions did not grow as fast. Many areas face high prices, fewer models, and a lack of charging points.
Why Electric Vehicles Matter
Electric vehicles cut CO2 from road travel. They lower the use of fossil fuels as they run on electricity. In 2018, more EVs helped cut the daily need for oil by millions of barrels. This change steers transport away from oil-based power.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Even with fast growth, EV buyers still face challenges. The cost of these cars stops some people from switching. More charging points are needed in many areas. Battery work shows progress by lowering costs and raising performance. Countries plan firmer rules, buyer support, and more charging stations. If fast growth continues, the rise in EVs can help meet goals like zero emissions by 2050. This trend will help lower transport CO2 as power shifts to low-carbon sources.
Conclusion
Passing 5 million electric vehicles in 2018 shows a clear shift in both the car and energy fields. The change sets a firm path for increased EV use on roads. The progress so far builds a base for more clean travel in the years ahead.
References
- International Energy Agency (IEA), Global EV Outlook 2019
- Wikipedia, "Electric car use by country" (latest updates on EV stock and market shares)
- National and Regional EV registration data from China, Europe, and the United States
Note: All statistics and figures referenced here are accurate as of late 2018 and early 2019 data compilations.
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