The Automotive Update: China’s EV dominance and Germany’s double-edged electrification push
13 June 2025
Tesla and BYD’s global electric vehicle (EV) race, plus Germany’s electrification push boosts fleets but misses used vehicles. Autovista24 special content editor Phil Curry reveals the latest industry news in The Automotive Update podcast.
In this week’s episode, a look at China’s grip on the global EV market. Also, an insight into Germany’s electrification initiatives and their potential impacts. Plus, Tesla faces legal action in France, London prepares for robotaxis, and Polestar enters one of Europe’s biggest markets.
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China extends global EV lead
The global EV market continued its strong growth in April. Battery-electric vehicle (BEV) deliveries rose 39.4% year on year, while plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) saw growth of 34%.
China accounted for 57.5% of global BEV sales and 69.4% of PHEV deliveries in the first four months of 2025. This was considerably ahead of the US, which trailed with less than a 10% BEV share.
Tesla and BYD remained the front-runners. The Tesla Model Y held its position as the world’s best-selling BEV. Meanwhile, BYD’s Seagull posted encouraging numbers. Fellow Chinese brands like Wuling and Geely also saw sharp increases.
Chinese carmakers swept the PHEV market, with BYD capturing eight of the global top 10 spots. The BYD Song Plus led PHEV sales with nearly 32,000 units in April, reinforcing the brand’s global dominance.
German EV fleet initiative
Germany has introduced new incentives to boost EV uptake, focusing on corporate fleets. The plans aim to ease costs for businesses and drive fleet electrification. This supports the country’s broader industrial and environmental goals.
However, the strategy does little to address the used market for EVs. The risk is that the used market could be flooded with vehicles that lack sufficient demand. This could impact residual values (RVs) and stall broader consumer adoption.
To close this gap, greater support of the used EV market is needed. Without this assistance, it is feared private buyers may stay cautious, slowing the broader shift to electric mobility.
Tesla’s French legal challenge
A group of Tesla drivers in France is suing the carmaker in an attempt to cancel their vehicle leases. Central to the legal action is the claim that CEO Elon Musk’s political activities have damaged the brand’s image.
As reported by the Financial Times, the lawsuit argues that Musk’s public statements have turned their cars into unwanted ‘far-right totems.’ This has apparently made ownership uncomfortable for drivers, with many of them originally choosing the brand for environmental reasons.
The case is currently in its early stages. If successful, the suit could allow affected customers to terminate their leasing agreements with Tesla.
Robotaxis to hit London’s streets
Uber will begin testing robotaxis in London next spring in partnership with UK AI firm Wayve, according to the BBC. The trial follows the UK government’s updated plans to fast-track small autonomous transport services.
The aim is to roll out commercial use of driverless taxis and buses sooner than the previously set 2027 target. It remains unclear if Uber’s robotaxis will carry passengers during the trial.
Polestar enter French market
Polestar has launched in France with its Polestar 2, 3, and 4 models now available for purchase, reports electrive. This marks a key milestone for the Volvo spin-off brand.
The move follows the resolution of a legal dispute with Stellantis over logo similarities. This was settled in late 2022, clearing the way for Polestar’s entry. The brand now operates in 28 markets across four continents.
Polestar will sell directly to consumers online and through partner retailers linked to Volvo’s network. Its first French showroom will open in Le Mans in July 2025, with up to 10 more planned across the country later in the year.
