Gasoline-only vehicles now represent less than half of global new-vehicle sales for the first time on record. In the first half of 2026, they accounted for 49% of the market, a significant drop from 73% in 2021. This shift is driven by a surge in hybrid sales, which outsold battery-electric vehicles. Conventional hybrids represented 18% of the market, while battery-electric vehicles held 17%. Spiking fuel prices, particularly due to the conflict in the Middle East, have prompted buyers to seek vehicles with lower running costs. Consequently, gas-only sales declined at twice the rate of the overall shrinking car market. China and Europe saw the largest decreases in gas-only vehicle sales. Conversely, battery-electric vehicle sales have experienced substantial growth in Europe and Southeast Asia. Experts predict continued growth in EV demand driven by genuine consumer needs as prices decrease. Despite the rise of electric and hybrid options, approximately 83% of new vehicles sold globally still incorporate an internal combustion engine. The trend indicates a long-term decline for gas-only vehicles.