Growth in emerging markets helped to ‘turbocharge’ the global electric vehicle market in 2025, a new report by Ember has found.
The report, which analysed data from the 60 countries that comprised 97% of global EV sales last year, found that several emerging markets are already seeing EV sales shares overtake those of advanced economies, with enabling policies helping to drive this transition.
Some 39% countries have now reached an EV sales share of more than 10% (compared to just four countries that had reached this level in 2019), with more than a third of these located outside of Europe.
Asia is leading the way in terms of EV adoption, with China reaching over 50% EV sales share for the first time this year, and Vietnam reaching 40%, having doubled its EV sales share in the past year.
Elsewhere, Thailand exceeded an EV share of 20%, and Singapore approached 40%. In Indonesia, EV share reached 15%, putting it ahead of the US for the first time.
‘Major turning point’
“This is a major turning point,” commented Euan Graham, electricity and data analyst, Ember. “In 2025, the centre of gravity has moved. Emerging markets are no longer catching up, they are leading the shift to electric mobility. These countries see the strategic advantages of EVs, from cleaner air to reduced fossil fuel imports.
“The assumption that EV growth will stall outside Europe and China is already outdated. Emerging markets will shape the future of the global car market. The choices made now on charging infrastructure and early support will determine how fast this momentum continues.”
Elsewhere, in Latin America, Uruguay has emerged as a frontrunner for EV sales, with EVs accounting for 27% of new car sales, roughly on a par with the EU. Mexico, Colombia and Brazil also continue to show ‘steady growth’, Ember noted, with each now boasting a higher EV sales penetration than Japan.
In Europe, meanwhile, Türkiye has led the way in terms of growth, with the EV sales share reaching 17%. This means Türkiye has overtaken Belgium to become the fourth largest market for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in Europe by sales volume.
‘Policy and consumer shift’
‘The policy and consumer shift in emerging markets towards electric vehicles is a globally significant trend, bringing with it new leaders in transport electrification,’ Ember noted, adding that the transition to EVs is also likely to have ‘profound impacts’ on future oil demand.
‘Investment in charging infrastructure and policy mechanisms to support early adoption will be key in order for more markets to follow in the footsteps of these new leaders.’ Read more here.
