VW Group and Newcomers Challenge Tesla in Dynamic European EV Market
The European market for electric cars is continuing its dynamic development. New models, technological advancements, and a wider range of offerings are leading to major shifts in the rankings. As per the latest analysis by automobile analyst Matthias Schmidt, registration figures from January to the end of September show that competition is intensifying—and that established manufacturers are also successfully positioning themselves.
Tesla remains a key player in this. The Model Y is Europe’s top-selling electric car. Between January and September, around 1.04 lakh units were newly registered. The Model 3 accounted for just under 58,800 cars. Both models continue to contribute significantly to EV adoption, even if the overall figures are slightly below the previous year’s level. This development indicates the market is maturing and new competitors are gaining strength.
Volkswagen Group Models Show Impressive Growth
Among European brands, the Volkswagen Group’s models particularly stand out. The VW ID.4 and ID.5 together registered around 66,000 new units—a plus of over 27 percent compared to 2024. This performance pushes them to second place in the European comparison. The compact ID.3 grew by more than 40 percent, reaching around 56,000 units, confirming the trend that the model is regaining its market position.
The VW ID.7’s development is particularly strong. The large electric car, available as a saloon and estate, has impressed with around 52,700 registrations in the first nine months, a jump of almost 250 percent year-on-year. This rising demand shows many customers are now opting for larger, long-distance-capable models. Škoda is also contributing majorly to the group’s success. The new Elroq has registered 54,350 units—a remarkable start for a completely new model. Together with the Enyaq, which accounted for 52,650 units, the brand is establishing itself as a fixed player in the European EV market.
New 2025 Models Boost Affordable and Premium Segments
Numerous new launches are boosting demand across the board. Renault has brought the R5, an emotional and practical small car, to the market. With 49,000 registrations by the end of September, the model immediately reached the top group. Kia achieved a similarly good debut with the EV3. The compact SUV registered 48,000 units, positioning itself in the same segment as the Renault. Both models highlight the growing interest in affordable electric cars in Europe.
Premium manufacturers are also showing strong developments. Audi is scoring well with the new Q6 e-tron, which registered 38,477 units and marks the start of a new generation of electric luxury models from Ingolstadt. The smaller Q4 e-tron remains stable at 42,587 units, though the previous year was slightly stronger. BMW remains successful with the iX1, registering 45,769 units. The 23 percent growth shows compact premium SUVs are still in demand. The i4 remains almost constant at 31,703 units, while the new Mini has grown significantly.
A noteworthy development is seen with Ford. The Explorer Electric, only recently launched, reached 27,996 registrations. Its success is also linked to the start of European production, ensuring better availability. The model symbolises Ford’s new electric strategy, which is more focused on the local market. Citroën is also benefiting from its new e-C3, which registered 33,987 units, proving that the small car segment is also regaining importance.
Market Competition Broadens and Balances
The analysis shows market shares are becoming more distributed. Tesla remains the most well-known brand in the EV segment by far, but the momentum is now shared across more shoulders. The brand’s market share is around 6 percent—down from 10.9 percent the previous year. Simultaneously, the Volkswagen Group as a whole continues to gain weight.
Mercedes is holding its sales stable. The EQA reached 29,039 registrations, level with the previous year. Volvo, however, is showing a decline: the EX30 has lost momentum after being among the top-selling models in 2024. The EX40 and EC40 models together accounted for 27,838 units—a minus of about one-third. Nonetheless, the brand remains present in the premium segment.
Overall, there are many indications that the market will balance out more in 2025. Manufacturers with new models and a clear focus on efficiency, range, and price structure are winning customers, without existing brands losing their importance. This leads to more stable competition, which ultimately benefits consumers.
Audi Q3 Debuts Advanced Micro-LED Headlight Technology
As part of this wave of innovation, Audi has unveiled new digital matrix LED headlights for the revised Q3, based on micro-LED technology. This is the first time this solution has been deployed in the brand’s compact class. As explained by Michael Kruppa, Head of Front Lighting Development, the system was developed not only to improve forward illumination but also to enhance safety for all road users. The move shows how lighting is increasingly understood as an assistance tool rather than purely for cosmetic purposes.
Each headlight integrates a 13mm module with 25,600 individually controllable micro-LEDs. With this, the vehicle projects leading light lines that help centre it in the lane and make the road easier to read. When the indicator is activated, the system subtly highlights the intended direction; if temperatures drop, a snowflake appears on the asphalt as a warning. The projections feel intuitive and practical for daily use, not like a show effect. Furthermore, the digital lighting automatically adapts to the traffic environment and prevents glare for oncoming traffic. This approach places the Audi Q3 among the new 2026 models, where lighting technology is directly linked with assistance and comfort functions—it sharpens visibility and strengthens confidence at the steering wheel.
Maserati Grecale MY2026 Boosts Folgore Range and Smart Tech
In the premium segment, Maserati has detailed its revised Grecale range for the 2026 model year, sharpening its own position while its rivals manage their own challenges. The crossover looks familiar at first glance, but the details are now clearer and more characterful. There is now a choice of up to 32 paint colours, flanked by an expanded Fuoriserie programme for even more customisation.
The focus is on the electric Grecale Folgore, which now achieves up to 580 kilometres on a single charge—around 100 kilometres more than before. A new all-wheel-drive management system makes the difference: it automatically disengages the rear electric motor to save energy and re-engages it during acceleration or when traction is reduced. The algorithm for battery pre-conditioning also works smarter: it prepares the battery for fast charging well in advance, considering the route, driving style, and terrain. Two electric motors deliver a combined 550 PS, with the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h achieved in 4.1 seconds.
Inside, the Grecale focuses on finer accents with new colour combinations, high-quality leather, and additional trim options. Prices for the 2026 model year have not yet been announced; the entry price is currently around 1,08,000 Euros. The overall approach feels pleasantly pragmatic: less show, more everyday usability, and a stronger sense of individuality—a coherent mix for those who want their SUV to be efficient yet distinctive.
