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Despite political uncertainty and potential trade turbulence on the horizon, the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market showed impressive momentum in the first quarter of 2025. Even amid concerns around tariffs and stalled federal funding for charging infrastructure, automakers posted strong EV sales gains—a signal that consumer demand continues to grow.
GM Leads With Impressive EV Growth
General Motors was a clear standout, reporting a 94% year-over-year increase in U.S. EV sales for Q1. This growth far outpaced its 17% rise in overall U.S. vehicle sales and reflects expanding interest in GM’s all-electric lineup. The Chevrolet brand, in particular, saw strong traction thanks to the Equinox EV and Blazer EV—helping make Chevy the fastest-growing EV brand in the country.
GMC also posted encouraging results, with Hummer EV sales up 109% and 1,249 units of the new Sierra EV sold in its debut quarter. Cadillac EV sales grew 37%, further illustrating GM’s push into premium electric models.
GM credits its momentum to a growing and diversified EV lineup that complements its continued leadership in full-size pickups and SUVs. The automaker continues to highlight its ability to offer a broad mix of traditional and electrified vehicles, appealing to a wide swath of the U.S. market.
Ford Sees Progress in Electrification
Ford Motor Company also reported a strong start to the year. The company’s hybrid vehicle sales rose 33%, while battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales climbed 12%. In total, electrified vehicles accounted for 15% of Ford’s U.S. sales in Q1—up three percentage points from the same period last year.
The Mustang Mach-E led the charge for Ford, with over 11,600 units sold despite tight inventory. With 2025 model year versions already on their way to dealerships, Ford expects this momentum to continue through Q2.
Stellantis, Lucid & Rivian Work to Gain Traction
Other U.S.-based automakers are ramping up efforts in electrification, though at a more measured pace. Stellantis launched three BEVs in 2024, including the Jeep Wagoneer S and the Dodge Charger Daytona, which contributed modest but notable volume in Q1.
Lucid Motors is banking on the success of its new Gravity SUV to build on the performance of the Lucid Air sedan. With its new manufacturing footprint in Saudi Arabia, Lucid aims to scale global production in the coming years.
Rivian, meanwhile, continues to evolve its business model, now selling electric vans to customers beyond Amazon as its exclusivity agreement ends. With fleet electrification gaining traction, Rivian could see expanded opportunities in commercial markets.
Tesla’s Position in Flux
All eyes now turn to Tesla as it prepares to report Q1 results. The company faces growing competition from both legacy OEMs and startups, while its public image has become increasingly tied to its CEO’s high-profile political engagement. Whether that translates to shifting consumer sentiment—and sales—remains to be seen.