Electric trucks have emerged as the fastest-growing segment in the global electric vehicle (EV) market, surpassing buses and light commercial vehicles in 2025, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Global sales of electric trucks doubled last year, exceeding 400,000 units and making up 9% of all trucks sold worldwide. This growth marks the fifth consecutive year of expansion for electric trucks, with heavy freight trucks seeing the most significant increase. Sales of heavy freight electric trucks nearly tripled from 84,000 units in 2024 to 230,000 in 2025, while medium freight trucks rose by 65% to 210,000 units.
Battery electric trucks dominate the market, representing 97% of electric truck sales globally. This trend is supported by declining battery costs, a wider variety of models, and improved competitiveness over diesel trucks.
China Drives Electric Truck Adoption
China continues to lead the electric truck market, accounting for over 90% of global sales in 2025. One in four trucks sold in China last year was electric, propelled by lower operating costs, government incentives, and stricter emissions regulations. The IEA notes that in some cases, electric heavy freight trucks in China have already reached cost parity with diesel trucks over five years of operation.
Growth Beyond China and Challenges in Emerging Markets
Other regions, such as Europe, also saw growth with a 40% increase in electric truck sales, reaching nearly 17,000 units. This rise is credited to tougher emissions standards and policies promoting zero-emission logistics. However, adoption is slower in many emerging markets due to high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure, and financing challenges. Electric trucks remain two to three times more expensive than diesel alternatives, emphasizing the need for incentives and affordable financing.
Electric Buses and Two- and Three-Wheelers
Electric buses recorded a 12% increase in global sales to nearly 70,000 units in 2025, with battery electric models making up 98% of sales. Meanwhile, electric two- and three-wheelers remain the most electrified road transport category worldwide, with sales rising by 15% to 11 million units.
Kenya’s Electric Motorcycle Boom
In Kenya, electric mobility growth is most notable in the motorcycle sector. Despite limited policy support, electric two-wheeler sales more than tripled in 2025, surpassing 25,000 units and representing about 15% of new two-wheeler registrations. This surge is largely driven by rising petrol prices and comparatively low electricity costs.
Commercial motorcycle riders benefit significantly, as fuel expenses can consume 40% to 60% of their income, while operating electric motorcycles costs less than Sh259 per day. Domestic manufacturers such as Spiro and Roam have scaled up production to meet demand. Innovative financing options like ride-to-own and daily payment models have also improved access to electric motorcycles.
