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BMW outpaces rivals on EU CO2 targets with strong BEV mix

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BMW is the only major automaker on track for the EU’s new CO2 rules, with 24.5% BEV sales and 15% PHEVs, outpacing Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis.
Michael Powers, Editor

BMW stands as the only major automaker in Europe clearly on track to meet the European Union’s new CO2 emissions rules. According to S&P Global Mobility, in the first nine months of 2025, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) made up 24.5% of BMW’s sales, including the Mini and Rolls-Royce brands, well above the 20% threshold required for compliance.

In addition, 15% of BMW’s sales come from plug-in hybrids, bringing the share of vehicles that can be charged from the grid to roughly 40%. For comparison, Volkswagen’s BEV share reached 16.8%, Mercedes-Benz is around 15%, and Stellantis sits at just 10.5% against its stated 21% target.

Analysts say BMW’s advantage stems from an actively expanded electric lineup that includes models considered among the best for balancing performance and energy efficiency. As a result, the company keeps a firm lead in Europe’s shift to cleaner transport, and on the road this strategy feels notably coherent and well-timed.