Gasoline vehicle sales fall below half of global market, report says

The short version

• Gasoline-only models fell to 49% of worldwide vehicle sales in the first half of 2026, down from 73% in 2021.[Electrek]
• Sales of pure combustion vehicles fell 10% year-on-year, driven by steep declines in China and Europe.[Electrek]
• Battery-electric vehicles took 17% of the global market and conventional hybrids reached 18%.[Electrek]
• United States electric vehicle sales are projected to decrease 45% in the third quarter following expired incentives.[Electrek]

Key facts

• Gasoline-only models accounted for 49% of global new-vehicle sales in the first half of 2026, dropping below 50% for the first time on record.[Electrek]
• Sales of gasoline-only vehicles dropped 10% year-on-year to 20.25 million units between January and June.[Electrek]
• Battery-electric vehicle sales increased 12% to 6.87 million units to capture 17% of the market.[Electrek]
• Conventional hybrids expanded 10% to 7.27 million units, representing 18% of global sales.[Electrek]
• Gas-car sales recorded the sharpest regional drops in China, falling 26%, and Europe, down 13%.[Electrek]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Gas cars fall below 50% of global new car sales for the first timeElectrek