The auto market in Romania continues to electrify at an accelerated pace. In March 2026, 100% electric cars reached a market share of 6.5%, compared to just 2.8% in the same period last year.
The growth is spectacular. According to APIA data based on DGPCI statistics, electric car registrations have increased by 150% in just one year, confirming the rapid change in preferences among buyers.
Electrified cars dominate the auto market
Overall, "electrified" cars - which include electric, plug-in hybrids, full hybrids, and mild hybrids - have come to dominate the Romanian market, accounting for 65% of total registrations.
This segment clearly surpasses traditional petrol and diesel engines, which are in decline. In March, petrol decreased to a share of 29% (-19.1%), while diesel dropped to just 6% (-26%).
Tesla Model Y, clear leader in the electric segment
In the ranking of the best-selling 100% electric models in 2026, the first position is held by the Tesla Model Y, with 355 units, an increase of 545% compared to last year.
Following closely are the BYD Dolphin Surf (268 units) and Dacia Spring (195), indicating that the market is starting to be dominated by affordable models or those with a good price-autonomy ratio.
Solid growth also for plug-in hybrids
Plug-in hybrid cars also continue to grow strongly, with a 60% increase compared to March 2025, reaching a market share of 7.7%.
The ranking is led by the BYD Seal U (252 units), followed by the Chery Tiggo 8 (145) and Volkswagen Tiguan (134).
Classic hybrids remain popular
Hybrids without external charging (full hybrids) have increased by 46% and have reached a market share of 26%, being one of the most stable segments.
The Toyota Corolla clearly dominates this segment, with 990 units (+42%), followed by the Dacia Bigster (868) and Toyota Yaris Cross (622).
Mild hybrid, in a slight decline
The only electrified segment in decline is mild hybrids, where registrations have decreased by 5%, to a share of 24.5%.
The Dacia Duster remains the leader, with 704 units, but records a sharp decline of 60%. Following are the Skoda Octavia (377) and Suzuki Vitara (367).
Auto market grows slightly, SUVs dominate
Overall, in March 2026, 10,273 cars were registered, 4.9% more than in March 2025.
SUVs continue to be Romanians' favorites, with a market share of 62.9%. They are followed by the C class (19.5%) and the B class (11.3%).
Mixed developments in the commercial vehicles segment
Light commercial vehicles and minibuses have increased by 5.7% compared to last year, while the minibus-free segment has even advanced by 13%.
On the other hand, electric commercial vehicles have decreased significantly: only 111 units in the first three months of 2026, compared to 270 in the same period in 2025.
In the heavy segment, things look better: commercial vehicles over 16 tons and tractor units have recorded increases, and overall the category has advanced by 10.9% in March.