(Boursier.com) — The European automobile market remained dynamic in August. Sales in the European Union increased by 21%, reaching 787,626 units, marking the thirteenth consecutive month of growth. Although August is generally a slower month for the sector, double-digit gains indicate that the European market continues to recover after last year’s slump linked in particular to component shortages, underlines the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers. Double-digit increases were recorded in most markets, including the three largest: Germany (+37.3%), France (+24.3%) and Italy (+11.9%). %).
In August, the market share of battery electric cars crossed 20% for the first time (up from 11.6% in August last year), surpassing diesel for the second time this year and becoming the third choice most popular with new car buyers. Registrations of battery electric cars in the EU jumped by 118.1%, to 165,165 units, representing 21% of the market. With the exception of Malta (-22.6%), all countries experienced double- or triple-digit growth, including Germany, the largest market by volume, with a remarkable growth of 170.7%.
?? ? Car registrations: ?+21% in August 2023, ? battery #electric 21% ? “In August, 20% time, year.” LATEST STATS: https://t.co/oGqFSNHOQN
— ACEA (@ACEA_auto), via Twitter
Hybrid-electric cars retained their second position, with a market share of 24%. Although gasoline cars remain the most popular choice, their market share has declined from 38.7 percent in August last year to 32.7 percent.
At the manufacturer level, the group Renault (+22.3%) performed very well again in August, as did Volkswagen (+21.2%) and BMW Group (+22.5%). The month was more difficult for Stellantis (+6.4%), Mitsubishi (-7.2%) or even Hyundai (+6.3%).
Over the first eight months of 2023, registrations of new cars in the EU increased significantly (+17.9%), reaching 7.1 million units. Despite this strong improvement, the market remains behind its pre-pandemic level (9 million units sold in 2019). Most markets have posted double-digit gains since January 1, including the four largest: Spain. (+20.5%), Italy (+20.2%), France (+16.6%) and Germany (+16.5%).