The Dutch automotive market saw a notable shift in the first quarter of 2025, with electric vehicles (EVs) continuing to expand their presence, even as total new car registrations declined. According to data from RAI Vereniging, BOVAG, and RDC, 91,766 new cars were registered in the first three months of 2025 — a 9.8% decrease compared to Q1 2024.
Yet, amidst this overall decline, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) recorded a clear rise in popularity. A total of 32,439 BEVs were registered in Q1 — an increase of 7.9% year-on-year. This brings the EV market share to 35.3%, demonstrating that electrification remains on a steady upward trajectory.
Accelerating the Shift to Emission-Free Mobility
“While overall market conditions are challenging, electric vehicles continue to be a strong pillar of growth,” said Huub Dubbelman, Chair of RAI Vereniging's Passenger Cars and Light Commercial Vehicles Section. He emphasized the importance of continued support: “We must maintain momentum now, as further growth is essential to achieving climate targets.”
Hybrid vehicles continue to play a transitional role, maintaining a market share of 46.8%, while petrol vehicles dropped to 16.5%, and diesel to a marginal 1.3%.
Strong EV Performance in March 2025
March was a particularly strong month for electric vehicle sales, with 11,195 new BEVs registered, representing 35.5% of all new car sales that month.
Top 5 EV Models – March 2025:
- Kia EV3 – 1,024 units (9.1% market share among BEVs)
- Tesla Model 3 – 792 units (7.1%)
- Tesla Model Y – 734 units (6.6%)
- Citroën C3 – 580 units (5.2%)
- BMW iX1 – 484 units (4.3%)
These results confirm that EV offerings are becoming more diversified and affordable, with newer models like the Kia EV3 leading the way.
Light Commercial EVs: Room for Growth
The light commercial vehicle (LCV) segment is experiencing adjustments after an exceptional Q4 2024. While total LCV registrations dropped significantly in early 2025 due to policy-driven market shifts, electrification in this segment remains a key focus. The 44% market share for electric vans in January 2025 suggests strong potential for recovery, particularly if incentive frameworks are reinforced.
Looking Ahead
As the Netherlands moves deeper into 2025, the continued growth of EVs — both in passenger cars and vans — is an encouraging sign. With over one in three new vehicles now fully electric, the transition to zero-emission mobility is well underway.
To maintain this trajectory, long-term policy certainty, supportive taxation frameworks, and a robust charging infrastructure will be crucial. As Dubbelman noted, “Electrification is not yet a given — but we’re clearly on the right path.”
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Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
