EV Industry Update: February 2026
The EV world is going through some serious turbulence. Here's what's happening and what it means for the industry.
Abdul Gafoor
February 16, 2026 · 6 min read
Global EV Sales Take a Hit
January 2026 saw global EV sales dip 3% year-over-year to 1.2 million units. The culprit? China's new purchase tax kicked in for the first time since 2014, pulling sales down 20%. The US market is struggling too - lowest monthly EV sales since early 2022 after federal tax credits were axed.
But here's the twist - Europe is surging at +24% thanks to renewed subsidies in UK, Germany, and France. Thailand also surprised everyone with 200%+ growth. The market is clearly bifurcating!
Tesla's Rough Patch
Tesla US sales dropped 17% in January - fourth consecutive month of declines. Brand value crashed 36% in 2025. Meanwhile, BYD has quietly overtaken Tesla globally with 2.26 million BEVs sold versus Tesla's 1.636 million.
Tesla's response? New lower-priced models and doubling down on energy storage with the Powerwall 3P - a native three-phase inverter in a single unit for European markets.
Megawatt Charging is Here
MAN Trucks demonstrated 750 kW charging in sub-zero Swedish winter at Kempower's MCS Live event. 10% to 90% charge in just 30 minutes. Production of MCS-equipped trucks begins Q2 2026. As Kempower says, "2026 will be the year megawatt charging truly takes off."
Waymo's 6th-Gen Robotaxis Rolling Out
Waymo launched its 6th-generation autonomous Driver in the rebranded "Ojai" robotaxi. Despite 42% fewer sensors, it delivers better range and resolution. Currently doing 400,000 rides weekly, targeting 1 million by year-end.
Expansion planned for 10+ US cities plus London and Tokyo. Safety record shows 90% fewer serious crashes than human drivers across 127 million miles.
Solid-State Batteries: 2026 is Verification Year
Toyota is building verification vehicles with solid-state batteries - targeting 1,000 km range and 10-minute charging. Samsung SDI confirmed 500 Wh/kg density. Mass production expected 2027-2028.
The EV industry is maturing fast. Policy changes are reshaping markets, and the winners will be those who adapt quickly. Kya lagta hai, which trend will define 2026?
Sources: