Global Electric Vehicle Sales Soar: 2.1 Million Units Sold Worldwide in September

Global electric and hybrid car sales hit a record 2.1 million units in September, jumping 26% from last year. The surge came from strong Chinese demand and American buyers rushing to claim tax credits before they expire.

China dominated the market with roughly 1.3 million units sold - about two-thirds of global sales. The country remains the world's largest car market and controls more than half of all electric vehicle sales worldwide, including both battery-powered and plug-in hybrid cars.

September is typically China's busiest car-buying month. This year saw extra activity as shoppers tried to maximize government trade-in subsidies before some regions started phasing them out. These programs let people swap old cars for newer models with financial support from the state.

North America also set a record as American buyers scrambled to secure the $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles. But market research firm Rho Motion warns this momentum won't last. They expect demand to drop sharply in the fourth quarter as both consumers and businesses lose access to the federal incentives that have been driving electric car purchases.

Europe saw growth too, helped by German incentives and strong demand in Britain. Tesla's upcoming launch of a lower-cost Model Y in Europe could intensify competition in the coming months.

The numbers show how government policies continue to shape the electric vehicle market. Tax credits and trade-in programs are creating buying rushes, but the sustainability of this growth depends on whether these artificial boosts can transition into natural consumer demand.

For automakers, the data reveals both opportunity and risk. China's massive market share means success there is crucial for global players. But the expected U.S. slowdown shows how quickly momentum can shift when policy support disappears.