Executive Summary
January 2026 has marked a historic milestone in the Singapore automotive landscape, as Electric Vehicles (EVs) have officially surpassed the 50% threshold for new registrations. With a total of 4,266 vehicles registered, the market is rapidly pivoting away from traditional internal combustion engines, driven by aggressive brand expansion and a clear consumer preference for sustainable transport.
Fuel Type Breakdown
| Fuel Type | Total Registrations | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | 2,355 | 55.20% |
| Petrol-Electric | 1,548 | 36.29% |
| Petrol | 257 | 6.02% |
| Petrol-Electric (Plug-In) | 106 | 2.48% |
| Total | 4,266 | 100.00% |
Vehicle Type Breakdown
| Vehicle Type | Total Registrations | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Utility Vehicle | 2,334 | 54.71% |
| Multi-purpose Vehicle | 859 | 20.14% |
| Sedan | 777 | 18.21% |
| Hatchback | 198 | 4.64% |
| Coupe/Convertible | 79 | 1.85% |
| Station-wagon | 19 | 0.45% |
| Total | 4,266 | 100.00% |
Detailed Analysis
Fuel Type Trends: The EV Takeover
The data for January 2026 confirms that the transition to green energy is no longer a future prospect but a present reality. Electric vehicles now command a 55.20% market share, with 2,355 units registered. When combined with Hybrids (Petrol-Electric) and Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs), electrified drivetrains account for a staggering 93.97% of all new registrations. Conversely, pure petrol-only vehicles have dwindled to a mere 6.02% of the market, signaling the near-total phase-out of traditional combustion engines in the new car segment.
Popular Makes and Models
BYD has cemented its position as the market leader in Singapore, registering 1,201 units in January alone—nearly double that of its closest competitor, Toyota (671 units). BYD's success is largely attributed to its diverse range of electric SUVs and sedans, which appeal to a broad demographic of buyers. Tesla remains a strong contender in third place with 413 registrations, followed by luxury mainstays Mercedes-Benz (335) and BMW (250). Notably, Chery has broken into the top ranks with 230 registrations, indicating the growing acceptance of newer Chinese EV brands.
Vehicle Type Preferences
The Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) remains the undisputed king of Singapore roads, capturing 54.71% of the market. The versatility and high driving position of SUVs continue to resonate with local buyers. Multi-purpose Vehicles (MPVs) saw a significant showing at 20.14%, likely bolstered by the popularity of the BYD M3 and Toyota Alphard/Vellfire hybrid models used for both families and private hire services. Interestingly, the traditional Sedan, once the staple of the Singapore market, now sits in third place with an 18.21% share.
Market Implications
For Prospective Buyers
As EVs become the majority, buyers can expect a wider variety of models and competitive pricing as brands fight for market share. However, the dwindling number of petrol-only options means that those resistant to charging infrastructure will find their choices increasingly limited to the secondary market or high-end luxury niches.
For the Automotive Industry
The dominance of BYD and other EV-centric brands suggests a permanent shift in the competitive landscape. Traditional manufacturers must accelerate their electrification pipelines to remain relevant in a market where consumers are clearly prioritizing sustainable technology and modern features.
Environmental Goals
Singapore is well on its way to achieving its Green Plan 2030 goals. The rapid adoption of EVs in January 2026 suggests that the government's EV Early Adoption Incentive (EEAI) and the expansion of the national charging network are yielding significant results, effectively reducing the carbon footprint of the nation's private transport sector.
