Ars Technica·3 min read

EV adoption in America: Who's winning, who's losing?

EV sales decline amid rising fuel prices and policy changes.

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the US is facing significant hurdles, with a projected 28 percent decline in sales for Q1 2026, exacerbated by the recent abolition of federal tax credits and rising fuel prices. Major automakers like Ford and BMW are experiencing steep drops in EV sales, with Ford's sales falling nearly 70 percent. Conversely, used EV sales are on the rise, indicating a shift in consumer behavior as buyers seek more affordable options amidst these challenges.

Key Takeaways

  • 1.

    Tesla's US sales dropped by about 5 percent compared to Q1 2025.

  • 2.

    Ford's Q1 EV sales plummeted by 69.6 percent, totaling just 6,860 vehicles.

  • 3.

    Used EV sales increased by 12 percent year-on-year, totaling 93,500 units.

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EV adoption in America: Who's winning, who's losing? | Trace