Volkswagen Group’s sales of all-electric vehicles (BEVs) have more than doubled in the first half of the year boosted by seven new models, Kallanish reports.

A total of 170,939 BEVs were sold in the period – up 165.2% from the 64,462 units delivered in H1 2020. The second quarter particular stood out when BEV sales reached 110,991 units – 259.7% higher year-on-year.

The 12-brand group benefitted from new model launchings by Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda and Porsche. The five best-selling BEVs in the first half were the Volkswagen ID.4, Volkswagen ID.3, Audi e-tron, Porsche Taycan and the Volkswagen e-up!.

Europe, the group’s home market, accounted for 74.9% of the company’s total global BEV sales with 128,078 units. The US and China held a share of 10.8% and 10.7%, respectively.

Sales of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) also boomed, with deliveries rising 204.2% y-o-y to 171,300 units.

Christian Dahlheim, head of group sales, said the company’s global electric offensive continues to make “good progress and customer demand is high.” He added that Volkswagen Group plans to deliver around 1 million electrified vehicles for the first time in 2021, while also being “confident” it will meet the fleet targets for CO2 emissions in Europe.