Europe’s EV sales surged 36% year‑over‑year, while North America plunged 33%, underscoring a widening regional gap that will influence global electrification strategies.
Europe’s EV Surge vs America’s Decline
Benchmark Mineral Intelligence reports that 1.83 million electric vehicles were sold worldwide in August, a modest 2% rise from the previous year but a 1% dip from July. The European market alone contributed a 36% increase, propelled by aggressive subsidies and tightening CO₂ regulations, whereas North America’s sales fell 33% amid supply‑chain bottlenecks and a shift toward internal‑combustion platforms.
Across the first eight months of 2026, global EV sales totaled 13.4 million, up 4% from 2025. Europe’s share of the global market rose to 30%, while North America’s share contracted to 5%. Analysts predict that the European momentum will continue as the EU’s Green Deal pushes for 30 million EVs by 2030, whereas the U.S. market may see a gradual rebound once supply constraints ease and federal incentives are clarified.
Source: Electrek
Ford Abandons Lightning, Launches $30k Fathom Pickup
Ford has officially removed the F‑150 Lightning from its lineup, citing a strategic pivot toward a new generation of pickups slated for 2027. The company will replace the Lightning with the Fathom EV pickup, priced at $30,000, and an extended‑range electric vehicle (EREV) that integrates a small internal‑combustion engine to boost range without sacrificing zero‑emission capability.
The Fathom will feature a 60 kWh battery delivering an EPA‑rated 250 miles, while the EREV will pair a 30 kWh battery with a 1.5‑liter turbocharged engine, offering up to 500 miles of combined range. Ford’s announcement signals a broader industry trend toward modular powertrains that can adapt to fluctuating fuel prices and regulatory landscapes.
Source: Electrek
Porsche Revives Electric Boxster, Nurburgring Test Sparks Buzz
Contrary to earlier rumors of cancellation, Porsche’s electric 718 Boxster prototype was spotted tearing through the Nurburgring with its brakes glowing red. The vehicle, powered solely by a 120 kWh lithium‑ion pack, demonstrates Porsche’s commitment to electrifying its entry‑level sports line.
Preliminary data indicates a peak power output of 450 hp and a 0‑100 km/h time of 3.8 seconds, while the lightweight chassis keeps the curb weight under 1,600 kg. Porsche plans to offer the electric Boxster alongside a hybrid variant, targeting the 2028 model year.
Source: AutoExpress
Volvo Excludes EX40 from US Lineup, Leaves EX60 as Entry‑Level EV
Volvo has decided to discontinue the EX40 in the United States, a move that follows the earlier withdrawal of the EX30. The EX40, originally launched in 2019 as the XC40 Recharge, will remain available in Europe but will no longer be sold in the US or Canada after the 2027 model year.
With the EX40 gone, the EX60—priced at $60,000—will become Volvo’s most affordable electric offering in North America. The company attributes the decision to shifting consumer preferences toward larger, more feature‑rich models and the need to streamline its EV portfolio amid rising production costs.
Source: Electrek
