The number of new cars registered in April in the EU amounted to 913 units, an annual jump of 995%, according to recently published figures from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA), euronews.com reports. Dramatic growth was seen in Romania (+13,7), Denmark (+34,6), Poland (+27,1) and Spain (+25,1%), with Cyprus leading the pack (+23,1).
The manufacturers that registered the biggest increase were Honda (+155,4), Volvo (+63,5) and Toyota (+47,3). In terms of numbers, the Volkswagen Group dominated with 254 units, an annual jump of 019%. The Volkswagen Group includes brands such as Skoda, Audi and Porsche.
Registrations of battery electric cars rose 14,8% to 108 units in April, with their market share holding steady year-on-year at around 552%. Cyprus saw a significant annual increase (+12), as did Malta (+381,3), Denmark (+103,6) and Hungary (+89,8).
Germany reported the largest number of registered battery electric cars (29), which is an annual decrease of 740%. Electric car registrations also saw significant declines in Croatia (-0,2) and Ireland (-70,3).
Slowdown in EV demand
There has been a general increase in electric registrations, although some experts warn of a slowdown in demand for electric vehicles. The reasons are not only insufficient charging infrastructure, but also the fact that electric vehicles are still too expensive for many consumers.
It's a problem that won't be helped by EU action against cheaper Chinese models, as politicians argue that subsidized goods create an uneven playing field for European manufacturers.
Due to insufficient demand, Ford Europe has postponed its goal to sell only electric cars in Europe until 2030.
To reduce emissions, the European Union passed a law last year that aims to make all new cars and vans sold in Europe zero-emissions from 2035. Companies that fail to do so will face heavy fines.