A total of 30,188 passenger cars were registered in the Netherlands during May, marking a 7.3% increase compared to the same month in 2024.
This is confirmed by the official report from the Dutch National Automotive Dealers Association (BOVAG), based on data from RAI and RDC, highlighting the first positive result of the year after four consecutive months of decline.
Of particular note, the Škoda Elroq emerged as the best-selling battery electric vehicle (BEV) of the month, with 1,093 units registered.
The model accounted for over 10% of all electric vehicle registrations, cementing its position in the Dutch market just months after its launch.
This compact SUV from the Czech brand, built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, offers a range of around 570 kilometres under the WLTP cycle—an important factor contributing to its popularity among both corporate fleets and private buyers.
The Škoda Elroq overtook the Kia EV3, which maintained a strong presence in the segment with 751 registrations, though it lost the top spot it had held among BEVs since February 2025.
The EV3 is positioned as a compact and affordable option, particularly suited to urban drivers and last-mile fleets, further strengthening Korea’s presence in the European market.
Tesla Returns to the Podium with the Model Y
The Tesla Model Y, which led the segment in May 2024 with 1,126 units, recorded 648 registrations this month.
Thus, it re-entered the top 5 after falling out in April, though the drop represents a 42.4% year-on-year decline.
The Model 3, meanwhile, went from 527 to 404 units, a 23.3% decrease.
As a result, it fell to fifth place, behind European and Korean models that are quickly gaining ground.
Volvo EX30 Maintains Its Presence
The EX30, Volvo’s most compact and affordable electric model, recorded 442 units in May, holding onto fourth place.
Designed with a focus on efficiency and state-of-the-art technology, it offers a WLTP range of approximately 400 kilometres and a fast-charging system capable of restoring up to 80% of battery capacity in about 30 minutes.
Despite a significant year-on-year decline, the EX30 remains a strategic model for Volvo’s electric push in Europe, targeting the urban and premium segments.
BEVs Maintain a Strong Role in the Powertrain Mix
In May, battery electric vehicles accounted for 34.6% of new car registrations in the country, making them the second most popular powertrain type, behind hybrid electric vehicles (49.2%).
The presence of BEVs rose compared to the 32% recorded in April, representing an increase of 2.6 percentage points.
The recovery in May reflects a transitional context in the Netherlands, as the automotive sector adapts to regulatory, economic, and technological changes.
The trend reaffirms the Netherlands’ leadership in electric mobility within Western Europe, despite the end of subsidies for EV purchases.
In this environment, competition among manufacturers is intensifying, with the arrival of more affordable and diverse models such as the Škoda Elroq and Kia EV3, which are emerging as key options to accelerate EV adoption in the country.
DISCOVER MOBILITY PORTAL DATA
Discover Mobility Portal Data, a new exclusive market intelligence platform offering reliable data and key reports to support smart decision-making across the automotive sector — covering both combustion and electric vehicles, as well as charging infrastructure.
Research, trend analysis, and neatly organised statistics presented with clarity and precision, alongside up-to-date insights — all just one click away. With Mobility Portal Data, good decisions are on the horizon
READ MORE
-
Flagship eMobility Incentive: Poland Freezes Electricity Prices for Home Charging
Poland is extending the household electricity price freeze until the end of 2025. According to the electromobility industry, this is one of the most important incentives for purchasing an EV.
-
Mercedes-Benz opens first Charging Hub in Parndorf
Over the next year, Mercedes-Benz plans to establish at least five more charging parks across Austria. Until 31 August 2025, MB.CHARGE Public customers can enjoy an introductory Free Charging offer at the Parndorf location.
-
UTA Edenred partners with Powerdot: adds 8,000 charging points across Europe
UTA eCharge electromobility solution users can now access around 8,000 Powerdot charging points in France, Spain, Belgium and Poland. This stations join UTA Edenred’s growing public network, which features more than 925,000 points.