Global electric vehicle (EV) sales — including battery EVs and plug-in hybrids — rose 29% YoY to 1.5 million units in April, according to Rho Motion. China led with a 32% increase to 900,000 units, followed by Europe’s 35% rise to 300,000. North America declined 5.6% to 100,000 units amid policy uncertainty and high tariffs. In Europe, traditional automakers surpassed Tesla as they pushed to meet EU emissions targets. Despite strong global demand, trade tensions and slowing markets may lead to factory closures and job cuts. China has extended its vehicle trade-in subsidy through 2025 to sustain EV momentum and support economic recovery.