New analysis from Astutus Research shows that light Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKMT) in Europe accelerated in the second quarter of 2025, rising by 1.8% year-on-year, compared with just 0.8% in Q1. The findings are published in the VKMT in Europe 2025 Q2 report.

Growth was led by Central Europe, where VKMT is now 8.5% above 2019 levels, supported by both car and light commercial vehicle (LCV) travel. In contrast, Western Europe car mileage remains below pre-pandemic benchmarks, with full recovery not expected until 2026.

“The latest data suggest steady growth in mobility through 2025, but uncertainty remains.” said Simon Hodson, Research Director at Astutus Research. “Shifts in working patterns, the rise of public transport, and potential tariff pressures will all shape the trajectory of vehicle travel over the next 12 months.”

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Report Availability

The VKMT in Europe 2025 Q2 report includes an interactive Power BI dashboard, a downloadable Excel dataset, and a PDF analysis covering VKMT growth, regional differences, updated economic forecasts, and emerging trends in rail transport.

About Astutus Research

Astutus Research is a specialist provider of data, insight and forecasts for the tire industry and the broader aftersales segment. We cover the complete tire lifecycle: from production and distribution to usage, disposal and recycling. Our mission is to help clients make smarter decisions with exclusive research covering customers, competitors, and market dynamics.

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European tyre markets faced headwinds in Q2 2025, with consumer demand turning negative for the first time in recent quarters. Consumer tyres fell 4% whilst truck and agricultural segments continued their decline at 5% each. Only motorcycles and scooters showed resilience with 2% growth. First-half performance confirms challenging economic conditions are impacting market confidence.

Access the complete ETRMA Q2 2025 report below for detailed analysis of mobility trends and electric vehicle developments.

New analysis from Astutus Research reveals that total annual Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKMT) by European light vehicles will exceed pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 2025, with VKMT projected to surpass 2019 figures by 1.3%. Central Europe is identified as the key driver of this recovery, showing robust growth compared to a more subdued performance in Western Europe.

The findings, published in the VKMT in Europe 2025 Q1 report, highlight significant disparities in vehicle travel recovery patterns across the continent.

Central Europe is forecast to see total VKMT rise 8.5% above 2019 levels by the end of 2025, positioning the region as a focal point for automotive sector growth and investment.

In contrast, Western Europe continues to face challenges, particularly with passenger car VKMT still 0.8%below pre-pandemic levels. A complete recovery in this segment is now not expected until 2026.

“This divergence is more than just a post-COVID hangover,” said Simon Hodson, Research Director at Astutus Research. “Central Europe’s freight-led recovery reflects the area’s strengths in manufacturing and logistics. Meanwhile, changing commuting habits continue to weigh on car mileage in Western Europe. For OEMs and suppliers, these shifting patterns offer clear signals about where opportunities lie.”

Report Availability

The VKMT in Europe 2025 Q1 report includes an interactive Power BI dashboard, a downloadable Excel dataset, and a PDF analysis covering VKMT growth, regional differences, updated economic forecasts, and emerging trends in rail transport.

About Astutus Research

Astutus Research is a specialist provider of data, insight and forecasts for the tire industry and the broader aftersales segment. We cover the complete tire lifecycle: from production and distribution to usage, disposal and recycling. Our mission is to help clients make smarter decisions with exclusive research covering customers, competitors, and market dynamics.

European tyre markets began 2025 with mixed results as consumer demand continued its recovery trajectory whilst commercial segments faced further challenges. Q1 data shows consumer tyres declining just 3% compared to the strong Q1 2024, with All Seasons tyres driving growth at 14%. However, truck and bus segments dropped 4%, highlighting ongoing economic uncertainties.

Download the full ETRMA Q1 2025 report below for comprehensive market analysis, import data, and passenger mobility trends.

European tyre markets closed 2024 on a positive note, with Q4 replacement volumes rising across all segments. Consumer tyres led the recovery with 12% quarterly growth, whilst truck and bus segments showed encouraging signs with 4% increases. Despite this progress, full-year performance remains mixed, with consumer sales up 5% but commercial segments still declining.

Read the complete ETRMA Q4 report below for detailed market analysis, sustainability insights, and mobility trends shaping the industry.

ETRMA's latest quarterly data reveals a mixed picture for Europe's tyre industry, as consumer tyre sales gain momentum with a 5% quarterly boost whilst truck and bus segments continue to struggle with declining volumes.

Get the complete quarterly report here (free download) for in-depth insights into vehicle parc evolution and electric vehicle trends across Europe.

In this update from the European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers Association:

1. Quarterly Tyre Market Review
2. EU27+UK Tyre Imports
3. Focus on Passenger Mobility Trends
4. Used Tyres Generated in Europe

Discover Astutus Research VKMT.

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