Popularity of electric cars in Ukraine
Electric cars have become the most popular new passenger vehicles in Ukraine for the first time, occupying 38.5% of the new car market in November 2025. This significant increase has occurred against a backdrop of a noticeable reduction in the share of traditional engine cars. In November 2024, the share of electric cars was only 12.8%, indicating the rapid development of this market segment.
The share of cars with internal combustion engines (ICE) decreased from 64.5% to 45.5% over the year. In particular, the share of gasoline cars dropped from 35.5% to 28.5%, while the share of diesel cars fell from 29% to 17%. There has also been a decline in the share of hybrid cars, which decreased from 22.5% to 16%. These changes indicate a consumer shift towards electric cars.
Trends in the electric car market
The fleet of electric cars in Ukraine has grown from several thousand to over 200,000 units since 2018. However, starting January 1, 2026, the temporary tax exemption for electric car imports will expire. VAT on electric cars (20%) will come back into effect on that day, which may impact future sales. For instance, the VAT for an electric car priced at €20,000 will be approximately €4,012. However, the excise tax for an electric car with a 60 kWh battery will remain at €60.
Among electric cars, the BYD Leopard 3 model holds the leadership in November 2025. Among gasoline cars, the most popular became the RENAULT Duster, which is also the leader among diesel cars. The most popular hybrid model remains the TOYOTA RAV-4, while among cars with gas equipment (LPG), the HYUNDAI Tucson leads. These results underscore the growing interest of Ukrainian consumers in environmentally friendly vehicles.
The significant increase in the popularity of electric cars in Ukraine indicates a change in consumer preferences and a growing awareness of environmental issues among the population.
The end of benefits on electric car imports may lead to a slowdown in their adoption, but the presence of an already formed market and the growing infrastructure for charging may maintain interest in electric transport. The situation in the car market in Ukraine indicates that the transition to environmentally friendly technologies is becoming increasingly relevant.