European automotive markets grow as electric and Chinese brands expand

The European automotive market is experiencing significant shifts in consumer demand and manufacturer dominance. In Italy, new vehicle registrations rose by 9.9% in September 2026, reaching 139,356 units. This growth is characterized by a surge in hybrid vehicles, which now account for over 50% of the market, while diesel registrations have fallen below 5%. The Fiat Panda remains the most popular model in Italy, maintaining a strong market presence.

Across the EU5 major markets (Germany, UK, France, Italy, and Spain), registrations increased by 10.7% in September. This growth is largely driven by electric vehicles (BEV) and a rapid expansion of Chinese brands. In the UK, the market grew by 12%, with electric vehicles reaching a record 28.3% market share. Chinese manufacturers have significantly increased their footprint, capturing approximately 23% of the UK market through brands such as BYD, MG, and Jaecoo.

In the two-wheel sector, Honda recorded 74,155 motorcycle registrations in Italy during the first nine months of 2026, securing a 23.7% market share. The company leads both the motorcycle and scooter segments, supported by strong performance from models like the SH family and the Africa Twin.