2025: The Year Electric Vehicles Go Mainstream

By the Director of the EV Charge Show

The future we’ve been discussing is no longer just 'coming soon' — it’s happening now. We've been organizing one of the world’s largest electric vehicle charging exhibitions for the past four years. From this experience, I can confidently say that 2025 will be a tipping point for electric mobility.

As we head into what many experts call a “breakout year,” all signs point toward a historic leap for electric vehicles (EVs). Sales are expected to top 20 million units worldwide — a record.

That means more people than ever are making the switch to electric. Many are opting for battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and electric SUVs.

This shift is being made easier by smarter charging infrastructure, better technology, and growing awareness of sustainable choices. Additionally, federal tax credits are making the transition even more attractive for consumers.

The EV Market Is Booming

EV adoption is accelerating in ways we’ve never seen before. Major automakers are scaling up production, with three out of four expecting to build more electric vehicles in 2025.

Nearly two-thirds of automakers are planning to boost the production of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) this year.

As a result, the number of plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) worldwide is expected to reach 85 million by the end of 2025. This represents a 30% increase compared to 2024.

China, which has long been a leader in this transformation, is on track to make history as electric cars outsell conventional vehicles for the first time. This is not just a statistic; it offers a glimpse into the future. The movement is spreading worldwide. Vehicle types like battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are becoming more common in regions such as Europe, North America, and parts of Asia and Africa.

Charging Is Getting Easier, Smarter, and Faster

We all know that access to charging stations is key. Fortunately, this has been one of the fastest-moving parts of the industry.

In 2024 alone, the number of charging stations grew by 33%. We're seeing new stations pop up across cities, towns, and highways.

Even better? Fast charging is now a reality. These chargers can get your electric car from 0% to 80% in just 20 minutes — perfect for a coffee break.

Charging stations are now being installed not just at fuel stations, but also at shopping centers, office buildings, and even residential complexes.

Additionally, regenerative braking technology in electric motors is improving driving efficiency and offering more sustainable power sources for electric vehicles.

What About Hybrids?

For those not ready to fully embrace electric vehicles yet, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) remain excellent alternatives. They combine the familiar internal combustion engine with the benefits of electric driving. These vehicle types are helping ease the transition into the electric mobility ecosystem, serving as a bridge for those hesitant to switch to battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

What This Means for All of Us

Yes, there are still challenges. Infrastructure needs to scale, charging stations must improve, supply chains need to remain resilient, and driver education must continue. However, the direction is clear: We are moving toward a cleaner, smarter way of driving.

As someone deeply involved in this sector, I witness the innovation and determination driving this change. It’s not just automakers, but also energy providers, city planners, policymakers, and startups that are contributing. The shift from internal combustion engines to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and electric motors is inevitable, and the expansion of charging infrastructure is key to supporting this transition.

What to Watch in 2025:

• - 20+ million electric vehicles sold worldwide

• - 85 million plug-in electric vehicles (PHEVs) and BEVs on the road

• - Fast charging becomes more common

• - Public charging stations expanding in both cities and rural areas

• - EV charging market on track to hit $104 billion by 2035

Welcome to the New Era of Driving

2025 isn’t just another year on the calendar — it’s a turning point. Electric vehicles are no longer niche. They’re becoming the norm. Whether you're already driving one, thinking about switching, or just watching from the sidelines, this movement is transforming how we think about mobility, energy, and the future of our planet.

It’s an exciting time — and the road ahead is electric.

Curious about the innovations shaping this transformation?

Join us at the EV Charge Show, the world’s leading trade fair for electric vehicle charging technologies.

November 12–14, 2025 | Istanbul Expo Center

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