Electric Vehicle Sales Surge Globally as Africa Emerges Key Market

Electric vehicle (EV) sales are projected to reach a record 23 million units worldwide in 2026, according to a new report by the International Energy Agency (IEA). Despite a slowdown in the global automobile market, Africa has emerged as one of the fastest‑growing regions for EV adoption.

The IEA’s report, “Electric Car Markets in a Time of Uncertainty,” revealed that EVs will account for 29% of all new vehicles sold globally this year, even as overall car sales decline by about 2% due to economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.

Africa recorded more than 30,000 EV sales in the first half of 2026, more than double the figure from the previous year. South Africa led the surge, with sales increasing more than fivefold, while Egypt posted a threefold rise.

Government support has played a major role. Kenya waived import duties on 100,000 electric vehicles, while Rwanda directed public institutions to ensure that at least 30% of newly procured vehicles are electric.

Globally, more than 9 million EVs were sold in the first half of 2026, with over 5 million sold in the second quarter alone. Although demand in China weakened, EVs still accounted for 24% of all global vehicle sales, one percentage point higher than last year.

Global Trends and China’s Influence

The IEA noted that EV sales increased in more than 90 countries during the first half of the year, reflecting broad adoption despite economic challenges.

Road transport accounts for nearly half of global oil consumption, making EVs a strategic tool for reducing dependence on volatile fuel markets.

Latin America more than doubled EV sales, India recorded growth exceeding 90%, and Southeast Asia expanded by about 75%.

Emerging markets such as Australia, Brazil, South Korea and Vietnam also posted sharp increases.

China, however, remains the dominant force in the EV industry. Although domestic car sales fell by more than 20% in the first half of 2026, EVs still made up over 60% of new cars sold in the country.

Chinese manufacturers responded by boosting exports by 65%, with electric car exports surging by more than 120%.

Chinese‑made EVs now account for about 90% of new EV sales in South Africa, and outside Europe and the United States, they represent 55% of all EV sales.

The IEA stressed that future competitiveness in the automotive industry will depend on battery manufacturing, software capabilities and resilient supply chains rather than traditional engine production.