Vehicles

The auto industry is undergoing a major shift in 2025. Several factors are driving this transformation:

• Global sales of electric vehicles (EVs) surged — in 2024 alone, some 17 million EVs were sold worldwide, a jump of over 25% compared to 2023. IEA+1

• Many countries and regions are tightening emissions regulations, while buyers increasingly prioritise fuel efficiency, cost of ownership, and sustainability. Exploding Topics+2Forbes+2

• At the same time, demand for rugged, durable vehicles remains strong — especially in regions with challenging roads or mixed urban-rural needs. For instance, in Kenya, pickups and commercial-capable vehicles continue to dominate among popular choices. TechMoran

So the result? The vehicle market is splitting more clearly into parallel — but overlapping — trends: electrification & modern mobility, and rugged practicality for everyday and commercial use.

What’s Trending Globally 🔥

### Electric Vehicles & Hybrids Are Going Mainstream

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• Compact and mid-size electric cars are getting attention. For example, Kia EV4 — a new battery-electric compact launched in 2025 — highlights how automakers are bringing EVs into mainstream, everyday segments. Wikipedia

• Luxury and premium players are also pushing EVs. The third generation Mercedes-Benz CLA (2025) includes battery-electric variants, and marks a shift in strategy: combustion-engine and electric versions share body design. Wikipedia

• Larger vehicles are also getting electrified: Cadillac Escalade IQ, an all-electric version of the full-size SUV, is part of a trend converting traditional heavyweights to electric. Wikipedia

• In markets like India (and by extension in other emerging markets), several new EV and hybrid models from established makers are driving interest — showing EVs are no longer niche or luxury-only. The Financial Express+2EVINDIA+2

What this means: The EV revolution is no longer confined to small, urban-use cars or luxury early adopters. In 2025, EVs and hybrids are breaking into SUVs, family cars, and even large-size vehicles — making them more relevant for diverse buyers worldwide.

What’s Trending in Kenya & Similar Markets 🌍

• According to recent data, the most popular vehicles among Kenyan buyers remain rugged pickups and commercial-grade vehicles — especially Isuzu D-Max and Toyota Hilux. TechMoran

• There’s renewed appreciation for heavy-duty, off-road capable vehicles such as Toyota Land Cruiser 70 series, especially among those working in agriculture, construction, mining, or needing reliability on rough terrain. TechMoran

• The demand reflects a blend of practicality, durability, and versatility — for both business/commercial use and personal transport in diverse geography.

What this means: In Kenya, and in many similar economies, the “trending vehicles” aren’t always the sleek new EVs. Instead, durability, reliability, and utility remain dominant: people want vehicles that can handle rough roads, carry loads, and require low maintenance.

What to Watch Next — Emerging Patterns & What May Influence 2025–2026

• Battery & charging tech improvements: Across the industry, advances in battery density, charging speed, and overall EV range are making electric cars more practical, even for longer drives or mixed urban-rural use. Automotive+1

• Hybrid as a transitional choice: In regions where EV infrastructure (charging stations, maintenance) remains limited, hybrid vehicles may offer a realistic “bridge” — combining fuel efficiency with flexibility. TechFinancials+1

• Vehicle finance & ownership models matter: In places like Kenya, the affordability and accessibility of finance (e.g. flexible financing schemes) significantly influence what kinds of vehicles trend. TechMoran

• Global-to-local balance: While global trends lean toward EVs and high-tech vehicles, local needs (terrain, cost, availability of parts/fuel, maintenance infrastructure) still make pickups and robust SUVs an enduring choice.

What This Means for You (If You’re Car-Shopping in 2025)

If you are considering buying a car now — especially in Kenya or similar environments — here are some suggestions:

• If you mostly drive in cities or on well-maintained roads and are concerned about fuel costs and futureproofing: consider hybrid or electric vehicles (if charging infrastructure and maintenance support exist).

• If you anticipate rural driving, off-road, heavy loads, or durability under rugged conditions: a robust pickup or SUV remains a very good bet.

• Keep an eye on new EV entrants — models like the Kia EV4 or electric SUVs — because as more competitors enter the market, pricing and options may improve, even in developing economies.

• Factor in total cost of ownership, including maintenance, availability of spare parts, fuel or electricity costs, and resale value (which remains strong for durable pickups).

Conclusion

2025 is a rare moment in automotive history: electrification, innovation and sustainability are accelerating — yet at the same time, traditional values of durability, practicality and utility remain deeply relevant.

For global markets, EVs and hybrids are rapidly becoming mainstream. But in many parts of Africa and similar regions — including Kenya — the “old favourites” (pickups, rugged SUVs) continue to dominate.

The future of vehicles will likely be a blend: increasingly greener options, but still grounded in real-world needs. As you (or many of your peers) decide on what vehicle to buy — balancing cost, lifestyle, terrain, and long-term value — 2025 offers more choices than ever before.