M
MercyNews
Home
Back
Car Sales Grow 12.9% in 2026 Led by Plug-in Models
Automotive

Car Sales Grow 12.9% in 2026 Led by Plug-in Models

Vehicle registrations rose 12.9% to 1.14 million units, driven by private buyers and plug-in cars. Toyota and Dacia lead the market.

El MundoJan 2
3 min read
📋

Quick Summary

  • 1The automotive market experienced significant growth in the past year, with vehicle registrations increasing by 12.9% to reach a total of 1,148,650 units.
  • 2This surge was primarily driven by private consumers, specific regional activity in Valencia, and the rising popularity of plug-in vehicles.
  • 3Despite the rapid expansion of electric and hybrid technology, the most numerous category remains mild hybrids and self-charging vehicles.
  • 4Toyota secured its position as the leading brand overall, while the Dacia Sandero emerged as the top-selling individual model.

Contents

Market Overview and Key FiguresLeading Brands and ModelsFactors Driving the SurgeConclusion

Quick Summary#

The automotive sector saw a robust 12.9% increase in registrations last year, totaling 1,148,650 passenger cars. This growth was fueled by three main factors: private consumer purchases, activity in the Valencia region, and the surge in plug-in vehicle demand.

While electrified models are expanding rapidly, the mild hybrid and self-charging category remains the largest by volume. Toyota maintained its dominance as the best-selling brand, and the Dacia Sandero took the lead as the most popular individual model.

Market Overview and Key Figures#

The market recorded a total of 1,148,650 passenger car registrations over the past year. This represents a significant 12.9% growth compared to previous periods, signaling a strong recovery and increased consumer confidence.

The expansion was not uniform across all segments. The data highlights a clear trend toward vehicles equipped with plug-in technology, which showed the most dynamic performance.

However, the structural composition of the market still favors traditional electrified solutions. The category of light hybrids and self-charging vehicles continues to hold the largest share of the total volume.

Leading Brands and Models 🚗#

Competition among manufacturers remained fierce, but clear leaders emerged.

Toyota secured the position of the best-selling brand, demonstrating the enduring appeal of its lineup to consumers.

In the specific model rankings, the Dacia Sandero outperformed all other vehicles to become the most registered car of the year.

The hierarchy of the market is defined by these top performers:

  • Toyota as the leading manufacturer
  • Dacia Sandero as the top individual model
  • Growth driven by plug-in categories

Factors Driving the Surge 📈#

Three specific elements were identified as the primary engines behind the market's expansion.

First, the contribution of private buyers was decisive. Unlike fleet or corporate acquisitions, individual consumer demand provided a stable foundation for the increase in volume.

Second, the region of Valencia played a distinct role in the overall figures. Activity in this specific area contributed notably to the national total.

Third, the technological shift toward plug-in vehicles acted as a major catalyst. These models, which include both fully electric and plug-in hybrid options, experienced the highest growth rates, indicating a rapid shift in buyer preferences.

Conclusion#

The past year marked a pivotal moment for the automotive industry, characterized by a 12.9% rise in registrations. The market reached a volume of 1,148,650 units, supported by private consumption and regional contributions from Valencia.

While Toyota and the Dacia Sandero represent the current champions of the market, the rapid growth of plug-in technology suggests a continuing evolution in consumer habits. The data points to a market that is growing in volume while simultaneously transitioning toward more electrified powertrains.

Frequently Asked Questions

A total of 1,148,650 passenger cars were registered.

The Dacia Sandero was the best-selling model.

Growth was driven by private buyers, activity in Valencia, and high demand for plug-in vehicles.

#Motor#Coches y motos#Artículos Félix Cerezo#Industria motor

Continue scrolling for more

AI Transforms Mathematical Research and Proofs
Technology

AI Transforms Mathematical Research and Proofs

Artificial intelligence is shifting from a promise to a reality in mathematics. Machine learning models are now generating original theorems, forcing a reevaluation of research and teaching methods.

Just now
4 min
171
Read Article
Accidents

Crane Collapses on Thai Train, Killing 22

A passenger train traveling from Bangkok to Thailand's northeast was derailed Wednesday morning when a construction crane collapsed onto one of its carriages, resulting in significant casualties.

6h
5 min
7
Read Article
Accidents

Train Crane Collapse in Thailand Kills 22

A catastrophic crane collapse onto a moving train in northern Thailand has resulted in at least 22 fatalities and over 30 injuries, marking a dark day for the nation's transport safety.

6h
5 min
7
Read Article
Prediction Markets Shatter Records with $702M Volume
Economics

Prediction Markets Shatter Records with $702M Volume

Trading volume in prediction markets reached an unprecedented $701.7 million on Monday, with Kalshi emerging as the dominant platform. This record-breaking activity signals growing mainstream adoption despite ongoing regulatory challenges.

6h
5 min
6
Read Article
Entertainment

The Rise of the 'Superdad': When Fatherhood Becomes Everything

From Kieran Culkin to Timothée Chalamet, a new wave of celebrity fathers is redefining the 'superdad' archetype, placing parenthood at the absolute center of their existence.

6h
4 min
7
Read Article
China's Record $1.2 Trillion Trade Surplus Defies Expectations
Economics

China's Record $1.2 Trillion Trade Surplus Defies Expectations

The world's second-largest economy has achieved a historic trade surplus of $1.2 trillion for 2025, powered by soaring exports that have defied international tariff pressures.

6h
5 min
6
Read Article
Sports

Thunder Ends Losing Streak Against Wembanyama's Spurs

The Oklahoma City Thunder finally broke through with their first win of the season, delivering a commanding performance against the San Antonio Spurs and their star rookie.

6h
5 min
6
Read Article
Inflation Data Shows Positive Signs, Markets Remain Cautious
Economics

Inflation Data Shows Positive Signs, Markets Remain Cautious

The year begins with a surprising economic indicator as inflation numbers show improvement, yet financial markets hesitate to celebrate the positive trend.

6h
5 min
6
Read Article
Russia Clarifies VAT Rules for Payment Market
Economics

Russia Clarifies VAT Rules for Payment Market

The Ministry of Finance has issued new guidelines regarding VAT application on payment market operations, effective January 1. The clarification distinguishes between SBP transactions and acquiring services.

6h
3 min
6
Read Article
2025: The Third Hottest Year on Record
Environment

2025: The Third Hottest Year on Record

Global temperatures soared in 2025, marking the third-hottest year on record. Experts warn the trend will continue into 2026.

7h
3 min
6
Read Article
🎉

You're all caught up!

Check back later for more stories

Back to Home