The US electric vehicle market showed growth in the third quarter of 2026, with total sales reaching 266,630 units. This figure represents a 7.7% increase compared to the second quarter. Electric vehicles now account for 6.5% of all new car sales in the country, up from 5.8% in the previous quarter.
Tesla continues to lead the market, with the Model Y and Model 3 securing the top two positions in sales. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 ranks third with 31,112 units sold through September. The Toyota bZ holds the fourth spot with nearly 25,000 units, while the Chevrolet Equinox EV follows in fifth place with 18,154 units sold.
Several manufacturers reported significant growth despite broader market trends. Toyota and Lexus saw their electric vehicle sales surge by 328% and 442% respectively. Rivian sales increased by 46%, and Subaru recorded a 31% growth. The list of top sellers also includes the Rivian R1S, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Rivian EDV, Honda Prologue, and Kia EV9.
The market is currently recovering from a correction phase that followed the expiration of a federal tax credit in September 2025. While sales volume remains 38.6% lower than the same period last year, analysts note that the industry is regaining stability. New models like the Kia EV3 and Rivian R2 are expected to influence rankings by the end of the year.
