Electric car sales grow in Belgium, but used cars still dominate

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) in Belgium continued to rise in 2025, but growth remains below its full potential, according to industry body EV Belgium.

Around 145,000 electric cars were sold last year, up 13.6% from 2024. This brings the total number of EVs on Belgian roads to about 450,000. Electric models now make up 35% of all new car sales, narrowing the gap with petrol and diesel cars, which account for 44%.

However, EV Belgium says progress is uneven. Almost 9 in 10 electric cars sold are company cars. While Belgium is among Europe’s leaders in this area, the organisation warns that this market cannot grow forever and calls for more support for private buyers and the second-hand market. 

EV Belgium expects further growth in 2026, helped by cheaper electric models coming onto the market. It predicts Belgium will pass 600,000 electric vehicles next year, but urges politicians to provide stable and clear policies.

Meanwhile, the wider car market tells a different story. According to mobility federation Traxio, six in ten cars sold in 2025 were second-hand. New car registrations fell by 7% to about 415,000, while used car sales rose slightly to more than 734,000, making up 64% of total sales.

Traxio says lower prices, good availability and uncertainty over engine types are pushing buyers towards used cars. Petrol still dominates the second-hand market, but electric cars are gaining ground, rising from 3% to 5%. Even so, demand is not yet strong enough to absorb all ex-lease electric vehicles.

© BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE