Romania automotive market declines 10.5% amid rising electric vehicle share

The Romanian new car market saw a 10.5% decline in registrations during the first nine months of 2026, totaling 96,261 units. In September alone, the market fell by 11.5% compared to the previous year.

Despite the overall downturn, electrified vehicles—including hybrid and electric models—accounted for 64% of the market share in September. Plug-in hybrid registrations surged by 131% year-on-year, reaching a 17% market share. Pure electric vehicle registrations grew by 16.6%, capturing an 8% market share. Conversely, gasoline and diesel registrations dropped significantly, falling by 36.8% and 43.6% respectively in September.

Dacia remains the most registered brand in Romania with 19,819 units in the first nine months, despite a 36.1% decrease. Toyota and Skoda follow in second and third place. Chinese manufacturer BYD showed significant growth, with September registrations up 532% compared to 2025. The BYD Seal U DM-i was the most registered plug-in hybrid model, while the Tesla Model Y led the pure electric segment with 886 units registered in the first nine months.