In the first half of 2026, the global market share of gasoline-powered vehicles dropped to 49 percent, marking the first time the figure has fallen below the 50 percent threshold. According to data cited by Nikkei, this represents a significant shift in consumer demand for traditional internal combustion engines.
During the first six months of 2026, global sales of gasoline cars reached 20.25 million units, a 10 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2025. Over the last year alone, their market share declined by 4 percent. The long-term trend is even more pronounced, as gasoline vehicles held a 73 percent share in 2021, reflecting a 24 percent drop over five years.
Conversely, the electric vehicle sector continues to expand. In the first half of 2026, approximately 6.9 million electric cars were sold globally, representing a 12 percent increase year-over-year. China remains the primary driver of this transition, accounting for roughly half of all global electric vehicle sales.
Market analysts attribute the declining interest in gasoline automobiles to rising fuel costs. The increase in prices is linked to the ongoing crisis in the Persian Gulf region, which has impacted the overall cost of vehicle operation and influenced purchasing decisions worldwide.
