BMW Beats Mercedes In Global Sales For H1 2025, Leads In EV Growth

BMW is still sitting comfortably at the top of the premium car world, at least for now. In the first half of the year, the brand delivered just over 1.07 million vehicles globally, which is enough to keep it ahead of its longtime rival, Mercedes-Benz, which sold 900,000 units in the same period.

Sure, BMW’s total sales dipped slightly compared to last year (about 2.3% down), but where the brand really pulled ahead was in the growing world of electrified vehicles. Between January and June, BMW sold 272,000 hybrids and fully electric cars—a 6.5% increase from the same time last year. That’s a big win in a market where going electric isn’t just trendy anymore; it’s essential.

Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz had a tougher time keeping pace. Its electrified vehicle sales fell by 19%, with just over 180,000 units delivered in the same six-month stretch. That gap has only widened the distance between the two rivals, especially as more buyers start thinking seriously about EVs and hybrids.

Audi, the third heavyweight in the German premium trio, hasn’t released its numbers yet. So there’s still a chance for a twist in the story—but for now, BMW’s blend of strong overall sales and forward momentum in electrification is keeping it firmly in the lead.