New car registrations in Europe fell 20% year on year in April, with sales of EVs stalling, due to the ongoing shortage of semiconductors around the world.
Registrations across 27 European markets dropped to 821,000, which is 20% lower than April 2021, figures from market analyst Jato Dynamics have revealed.
Year to date, new registrations dropped by 13% to 3.55 million, which Jato said was the second-lowest result since 1991.
As well as the global shortage of semiconductors, Jato attributed the drop to the inflation crisis and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“It’s concerning to see European sales falling at such a rate, despite the global easing of Covid-19 restrictions,” said Felipe Munoz, global analyst at Jato.
“The worst of the pandemic damaged sales for several months, but the chip shortage looks set to be even more sustained in its impact on the market.”
The drop in sales in Ukraine has also affected the overall registration number for Europe. Some 103,300 new cars were sold in the country last year, making it the 20th-biggest market on the continent.
The uptake of electrified models also stalled in April having previously been “a reason for optimism”, Jato said.
EV and PHEV registrations dropped by 1.4% from April 2021 to 154,219. This was the second year-on-year drop since April 2020.
According to Jato, the drop in EV uptake is a result of supply failing to meet demand generated by EV incentives. Demand increased by 13% to 83,000.
The Peugeot 208 was the month’s best-seller, shifting 15,615 examples across the continent. This figure is 15% down on April 2021, though.
The French supermini was followed by the Volkswagen T-Roc crossover (13,998) and the Dacia Sandero supermini (12,913).
The top 10 best-selling models in Europe are listed below.
The best-selling cars in Europe in 2022
1 Peugeot 208, 15,615, -15%
The Peugeot 208 moved up to top spot in April, with 15,615 sales. Its popularity is no doubt helped by extensive revisions in line with Peugeot's new design language. Its versatility and affordable price remain attractive, as it's offered with petrol, diesel and electric powertrains.
2 Volkswagen T-Roc, 13,998, -19%
Volkswagen sold 13,668 examples of the T-Roc in January. That’s almost equal to this time last year. The small crossover has been around since 2017, and its popularity reflects its versatile mix of petrol and diesel powertrains, as well as the recent introduction of a performance-oriented flagship R model.
3 Dacia Sandero, 12,913, -2%
The highly affordable Dacia Sandero supermini finishes April in fourth place, having previously topped the list. The new-generation model features much-improved equipment, including LED headlights and a touchscreen infotainment system.
4 Fiat 500, 12,835, -18%
The Fiat 500 has been on sale since 2007, and it’s unlikely to be dropped any time soon. The model recently gained an electric variant with battery sizes up to 44kWh. Range is pegged at 199 miles, but mild-hybrid and petrol models remain on sale if electric isn’t your bag.
5 Ford Puma, 12,601, -5%
The Ford Puma’s driving dynamics and attractive pricing are key draws for owners, and it's looking to carry on last year’s success. The range has swollen recently with the addition of a plush Vignale trim and a warm-blooded ST version.
6 Toyota Yaris, 12,448, -28%
The Yaris supermini is as popular as ever in its fourth generation. It’s Toyota’s most successful and biggest-selling model in Europe for good reason, and its GR performance variant is one of the best cars we tested last year.
7 Opel/Vauxhall Corsa, 11,843, -30%
The revamped Opel/Vauxhall Corsa had a successful 2021, finishing as the UK’s best-selling car. Its success is in part due to its PSA-developed underpinnings and mix of petrol, diesel and electric powertrains.
8 Toyota Corolla, 11,678, -4%
The Toyota Corolla sold 11,678 units in April, returning to the top ten having dropped out following a successful January. It has proved a hit in the family car segment, thanks in part to its incredibly efficient hybrid powertrains.
9 Kia Sportage, 11,653, +53%
The Kia Sportage recently received a comprehensive makeover, making for an eye-catching family SUV. Its refinement, handling and technology have all been bolstered, too. Will it continue the success of its predecessor? First impressions look good, with 11,653 cars sold across Europe for a huge growth of 53%.
10 Fiat Panda, 11,554, -4%
Almost a decade years on from its launch, the third-generation FIat Panda continues to perform. Despite a 4% drop year-on-year, the city car props up April’s top 10, with 11,554 sales.
