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Based on vehicles, the market is segmented into two-wheelers, passenger vehicles, and commercial vehicles. In 2023, the passenger vehicles segment accounted for over 75% of the market share and is expected to exceed USD 2 trillion by 2032. Luxury automakers like Tesla, BMW, and Audi are capitalizing on the growth of the European EV market by introducing high-end electric models.
European consumers increasingly demand premium EVs that offer environmental benefits, advanced autonomous driving, cutting-edge infotainment systems, and superior performance. For instance, in June 2024, Kia launched the EV9 series, a range of battery-powered vehicles, following the success of the EV6, which won European Car of the Year in 2022. Preorders began in July, with initial EV9 units expected in Europe later this year.
The EV9, Kia's largest model in Europe, is built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and features 800-volt super-speed charging capability. Additionally, luxury automakers are investing in electric platforms that provide long-range capabilities, fast charging, and seamless user experiences, further driving the adoption of premium EVs in Europe’s passenger vehicle segment.
Based on the drive, the Europe electric vehicle market is divided into front-wheel, rear-wheel, and all-wheel drive. The front wheel segment is expected to exceed USD 1.2 trillion by 2032. In Europe, smaller and mid-sized electric vehicles (EVs) increasingly adopt front-wheel drive (FWD) layouts. This configuration is cost-effective and meets urban and suburban performance demands, prioritizing compact design and efficiency.
Leading manufacturers such as Renault, Volkswagen, and Peugeot have introduced popular models like the Renault Zoe and VW ID.3. FWD offers superior traction in wet or snowy conditions, making it ideal for various European climates, especially in northern regions with challenging road conditions.
FWD EVs are designed to enhance energy efficiency and maximize battery range. By placing the electric motor in the front, automakers optimize battery space and reduce mechanical complexity, resulting in lighter vehicles with extended ranges. This trend is particularly strong in Europe, where consumers prioritize energy efficiency and longer ranges. Front-wheel drive EVs generally consume less energy than all-wheel or rear-wheel drive models, especially for daily city driving, increasing their appeal in the growing compact EV market segment.
Germany electric vehicle market accounted for 28% of the revenue share in 2023. German automotive giants are retrofitting factories to support EV production. For instance, VW is investing USD 89 billion in EV development, converting plants like Zwickau to exclusively produce EVs. BMW and Mercedes are also transforming their production lines with flexible systems that can handle both ICE and EV production during the transition. These upgrades include new robotics systems, battery assembly lines, and digital manufacturing processes.
Post-Brexit, the UK is significantly investing in EV manufacturing. Nissan's Sunderland plant is transforming into an EV hub with a USD 1 billion investment. Several battery gigafactories, including BritishVolt's facility in Northumberland, are planned. This initiative aims to secure the automotive industry's future and create thousands of jobs in the EV supply chain.
In France, innovative approaches include converting lamp posts to charging points. Paris is installing 15,000 new charging points, and wireless charging pilots in urban areas are testing next-generation solutions. This focus reflects France's highly urbanized population.
In Italy, the focus is on small EVs suitable for historic city centers. Electric scooters and micromobility solutions are gaining popularity, and cities are implementing Low-Emission Zones favoring electric vehicles. This trend aligns with traditional Italian urban mobility patterns. Programs are addressing the north-south charging infrastructure gap, with EU funding supporting southern network expansion. The focus is on tourist routes and major highways to ensure nationwide EV accessibility.