The global electric vehicle (EV) market is undergoing significant transformations, and Volkswagen Group is navigating these changes with a strategic focus that is paying off in Europe. In the first half of 2026, the German automaker delivered 438,500 fully electric vehicles (BEVs) worldwide, marking a 5.8% decline compared to the same period in 2026. However, Europe stood out with an 8.4% increase in deliveries, totaling 377,000 units.
This performance underscores Volkswagen’s strong position in the European EV market, where the Skoda Elroq emerged as the top-selling model within the group’s lineup. The Elroq achieved 59,900 global deliveries in the first six months of 2026, solidifying its status as the most sought-after battery electric vehicle in Volkswagen’s portfolio.
Top-performing electric models within Volkswagen Group
The success of the Skoda Elroq is followed by two well-established models: the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 which together accounted for 53,700 deliveries. The Skoda Enyaq available in both standard and Coupé versions, secured the third position with 48,300 units delivered. These figures highlight the growing preference for SUVs among EV buyers.
Other notable performers include the Volkswagen ID.3 with 44,400 deliveries, and the Audi Q4 e-tron offered in both SUV and Sportback configurations, which reached 33,800 units. The newly introduced Audi Q6 e-tron also made a strong debut with 31,900 deliveries. Rounding out the top ten are the Volkswagen ID.7 (29,500 units), ID. Buzz (27,200 units), Cupra Born (20,800 units), and Audi A6 e-tron (18,400 units).
Geographical trends: Europe’s growth and challenges in other markets
Europe has become the driving force behind Volkswagen’s EV sales, with deliveries increasing by 8.4% compared to the first half of 2026. This growth has cemented Volkswagen’s leadership in the European EV market. In contrast, the Chinese market experienced a significant downturn, with EV deliveries dropping by 47.9% to 30,900 units. This decline reflects the intense competition from local Chinese EV manufacturers.
The situation in the United States is even more challenging, with EV deliveries plummeting by 68.8% to just 9,800 units. This sharp decline can be attributed to reduced government incentives and a less favorable regulatory environment. Despite these setbacks, Volkswagen remains committed to its electric mobility strategy, particularly in Europe, where the demand for EVs continues to rise.
Volkswagen’s global performance and strategic adjustments
In the first half of 2026, Volkswagen delivered a total of 4.13 million vehicles worldwide, representing a 6.3% decrease compared to the same period in 2026. The decline was primarily driven by a 25.9% drop in deliveries in China, where the However, there are early signs of recovery with the introduction of new EV models specifically designed for the Chinese market.
Marco Schubert, member of the extended executive committee responsible for sales, noted, “In the first half of the year, we grew by about 2% outside of China. Particularly encouraging is the reception of the new Electric Urban Car Family in Europe, which is exceeding our expectations.” This new family of electric city cars has already garnered over 54,000 orders for models such as the Volkswagen ID. PoloSkoda Epiq and Cupra Raval despite only three of the four planned models being available.
As Volkswagen continues to adapt its strategy in response to global market dynamics, the company’s focus on electric mobility in Europe remains a bright spot amidst the challenges faced in other regions.
