Europe’s new-car market continues to move towards electrified vehicles. For buyers searching across borders, the latest figures provide useful context—but choosing the right car still requires a closer look at the individual vehicle and its total cost.
What has changed?
According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, ACEA, new passenger-car registrations in the European Union increased by 5.3% during January–August 2026, compared with the same period last year.
Hybrid-electric cars held the largest share at 36.6%, followed by battery-electric vehicles at 21.7%. Plug-in hybrids represented another 10%. Petrol and diesel together accounted for 29%, down from 37.5% a year earlier.
Belgium’s new battery-electric registrations increased by 13.1% over the same eight-month period. These figures concern new registrations; they do not measure used-car prices or the availability of a particular model. Read ACEA’s original market report.
What should buyers consider?
AutoLink M.A.T.’s buying perspective: use market trends as background, then compare cars against your actual needs.
For an electric vehicle, ask for available battery-condition information, confirm charging compatibility and check the remaining warranty. For a plug-in hybrid, consider whether your daily routine allows regular charging.
Regardless of powertrain, request the service history, inspect the vehicle’s condition and compare equivalent specifications. Two cars advertised under the same model name may have different equipment, warranty coverage or maintenance needs.
Compare the complete cost of buying abroad
An attractive listing price is only the starting point. Before committing, obtain a clear breakdown of transport, applicable taxes, inspection, registration and any technical work required for the destination country.
The country where a car is advertised does not, by itself, establish its tax treatment or registration readiness. Those details need to be checked for the specific vehicle and transaction.
Find a car that fits your requirements
AutoLink M.A.T. helps customers search across European markets according to their preferred model, budget, condition and timing.
Tell us what you are looking for through our European car sourcing service.
