Western European car market weakened in May – GlobalData
According to GlobalData, Western European passenger cars (PV-CARS) existed from 11.2 million units per year to 10.9 million units per year in May, as observed in April. Sales totaled just under 1 million new vehicles, new vehicles before the 2% improvement. YTD sales are currently just under 5 million units, significantly flat compared to the same period in 2024. Spain continues to shine as an outstanding performer, but the French market is tackling Yoy’s losses.
In recent months, Western European PV markets have struggled to meet expectations due to declining consumer trust, mainly due to inflation concerns, potential US trade tariffs, and wider economic uncertainty. Sales have fallen this year in three of the five biggest markets, including France, Germany and Italy. GlobalData continues to forecast that it has not reached its 2024 results, with current forecasts of 11.4 million units (-1% year-on-year).
PV sales rates in Western Europe fell to 10.9 million units per year in May. Yoii’s sales improved around 2%, totaling 988K units. Regional sales results show a variety of situations. However, the continued decline in sales from most of the five major markets is hampering overall growth.
On a positive note, the German PV market grew for the first time in six months in May 2025. Sales increased by about 1% year-on-year to 239K units. YTD’s sales reached 1.15 million units, more than 2% compared to the same period in 2024. Latest PV sales were 28% lower than in May 2019. While growth last month is encouraging, sales are expected to sluggish due to general uncertainty. This has impacted the willingness of consumers to invest in durable goods such as PVS.
The UK PV market improved last month, with sales totaling 150,000 units, up nearly 2% from the previous year. Sales increased due to increased fleets and business registration. Furthermore, the significant growth of BEV and PHEV, driven by attractive manufacturer incentives, has contributed to improving the overall market. YTD’s sales are currently at 851K units, up nearly 3% from the same period in 2024.
sauce: GlobalData
Spain’s PV market remains a key driver of growth, with YTDs growing nearly 19% year-on-year. Sales have increased due to fleet updates, increased electrified vehicle registrations, vehicle exchanges from Dana weather events, and effective government incentives like the Move 2025 plan.
The French PV market appears to be free falling as sales have fallen in 12 of the last 13 months, with results this month’s results falling by more than 12% since May 2024. In Italy, the market recorded its worst sales rates since 2022, but sales in May remained significantly flat.