In a surprising turn of events, Chevrolet has overtaken Ford in U.S. electric vehicle (EV) sales in 2025, marking a significant shift in the automotive landscape. This development underscores the intensifying competition in the EV market and highlights the evolving preferences of American consumers.
Chevrolet’s Rapid Ascent
Chevrolet’s surge in EV sales can be attributed to its strategic focus on affordability and range. The 2025 Chevy Equinox EV, for instance, offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 319 miles and starts at $34,995, making it one of the most accessible long-range EVs on the market. In the first quarter of 2025, Chevrolet sold 10,329 units of the Equinox EV, contributing significantly to its total of 19,186 EVs sold during that period—a remarkable 114.2% increase compared to the same quarter in 2024 . By the end of May 2025, Chevrolet had sold over 37,000 EVs in the U.S., surpassing Ford’s estimated 34,000 EVs sold during the same timeframe .
Ford’s Challenges
While Ford experienced a 12% increase in EV sales in the first quarter of 2025, totalling 22,550 units, it faced challenges with its flagship models. Sales of the F-150 Lightning declined by 7.2%, and the company has delayed the launch of its next-generation electric pickup truck until 2027 . These setbacks have impacted Ford’s ability to compete effectively in the rapidly evolving EV market
The Broader EV Landscape
The U.S. EV market continues to grow, with nearly 300,000 new electric vehicles sold in the first quarter of 2025, representing an 11.4% year-over-year increase . General Motors, Chevrolet’s parent company, has capitalized on this growth, with its brands accounting for 14.4% of new EV sales in April 2025 .
Looking Ahead
Chevrolet’s achievement in surpassing Ford in U.S. EV sales highlights the importance of aligning product offerings with consumer demands for affordability and range. As the EV market continues to expand, automakers will need to adapt swiftly to maintain competitiveness and meet the evolving expectations of consumers.
This milestone not only signifies a shift in market dynamics but also emphasizes the critical role of strategic planning and innovation in the automotive industry’s transition to electric mobility.