Despite a significant downturn in overall commercial vehicle registrations across the European Union during the first half of 2025, electric and electrified models continued to gain traction. However, the pace of growth remains too slow to support a robust transition towards cleaner transport, according to new data published by the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA).

Electric vans grow steadily, but diesel still dominates

Diesel remains the preferred choice for new van buyers, holding 82% of the EU market, although this marks a decline from 84.3% in the first half of 2024. Electrically-chargeable vans saw their market share increase to 9.5%, up from 5.8% the year before — a sign of growing interest in zero-emission options.

Hybrid vans also posted a modest rise in registrations, increasing by 7.1%, but their share remains limited at just 2.6%.

Electric trucks expand, driven by Dutch market

Electrically-chargeable trucks secured 3.6% of the EU market in H1 2025, up from 2.1% in the same period last year. The Netherlands led this growth, recording a striking 187.6% increase and accounting for nearly one-fifth of all electric truck registrations in the EU.

Nonetheless, diesel still overwhelmingly dominates the truck segment, with a 93.6% market share — a clear indication that barriers such as inadequate charging infrastructure, high vehicle costs, and limited availability are still slowing down the shift.

Electric buses lead the way in public transport transition

The bus sector shows the strongest momentum in electrification. Electrically-chargeable buses reached a 21.6% market share, up from 16.4% in H1 2024. Germany saw an impressive 105.2% growth in electric bus registrations, maintaining its position as the EU’s largest market by volume. Belgium also reported remarkable progress, with 523 electric buses registered — up from just 110 last year.

In contrast, hybrid-electric bus registrations fell by 35.5%, now representing only 6.9% of the market. Diesel buses also declined slightly, now making up 64.7% of registrations, compared to 66.2% a year ago.

Electrification moving forward, but far from fast enough

While the upward trend in electrically-chargeable commercial vehicles is a positive sign, ACEA warns that the current pace is not sufficient to meet the EU’s climate and emissions targets. The continued lack of enabling conditions — such as widespread charging networks, coordinated government support, and financial incentives — remains a major hindrance to broader market uptake.

In summary, electric and hybrid commercial vehicles are steadily increasing their presence across vans, trucks, and buses. However, the transition remains too slow to match the urgency of decarbonising Europe’s transport sector. More coordinated action is needed to accelerate the shift and ensure the commercial vehicle industry contributes meaningfully to a greener future.