GlobalData Global Light Vehicle Sales Update (September 2026)
US Returns to Growth While Global Momentum Fades; India & Western Europe Stay Strong
2026/10/23
Summary
- The global Light Vehicle (LV) selling rate broke its growth trend in September, falling to 89 mn units/year. This brought the YTD average selling rate to 88 mn units/year for 2026, 4.4% lower than the full-year 2025 result. With one quarter of sales remaining, it looks very likely that the market will not improve on last year. YTD sales stand at 65 mn units, down 4.3% compared to the first nine months of 2025.
- China remained the key drag on global volumes in September, with PV sales down markedly, although against a subsidy-inflated base. The weak economic fundamentals and the lack of policy support remained significant headwinds. The US returned to YoY growth, although the selling rate eased and rising fuel costs are steering buyers towards hybrids. Western Europe continues to be supported by the electrification momentum, while India remains the key driver in Asia.
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Japan
USA
Mexico
Germany
China (Shanghai)
Thailand
India