4 Stocks Poised to Capitalize on the EV Revolution in 2026

Industry Overview - Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming integral to global transportation, with advancements in battery technology and charging infrastructure making them more practical and affordable for everyday use [1] - Modern EV batteries have improved in longevity, charging speed, and production costs, narrowing the price gap with gas-powered vehicles and expanding EV appeal [1] - Fast-charging networks are expanding in major markets, addressing one of the significant concerns for potential buyers: charging time [1] Market Dynamics - Despite uneven adoption rates, the long-term shift toward electrification is firmly established, with global EV sales rising 21% year over year to 18.5 million vehicles in the first 11 months of 2025 [4] - The number of electric vehicles in use is expected to grow by 30% in 2026, reaching 116 million units worldwide, with plug-in hybrid vehicles forecasted to increase by 32% [4] - China is a key driver of this transition, with competitive pricing, strong government support, and innovation leading to a majority share of light-vehicle sales [5] - Global plug-in vehicle sales increased by 25% in 2024 to 17.8 million units, capturing nearly 20% of the light-vehicle market, projected to rise to 22.1 million in 2025 [6] Company Highlights - Blue Bird Corporation (BLBD): A leader in low- and zero-emission school buses, with over 20,000 buses operating in the U.S. The company aims for $1.5 billion in revenues and $220 million in adjusted EBITDA for fiscal 2026, with a target of adjusted EBITDA margins above 16% on approximately $2 billion in revenues [7][8][10] - Workhorse Group Inc. (WKHS): Focused on medium-duty electric commercial vehicles, with a production capacity of over 5,000 vehicles per year. The company has a solid sales pipeline and a growing backlog, with a projected year-over-year improvement of 90% and 56% for 2025 and 2026, respectively [11][12][13] - QuantumScape Corp. (QS): Developing solid-state lithium batteries with significant advancements in manufacturing processes. The company recorded $12.8 million in customer billings for the first time and is moving closer to commercialization [14][16] - ChargePoint Holdings, Inc. (CHPT): A leading player in EV charging, connecting drivers to over 1.3 million charging ports worldwide. The company reported a 6% year-over-year revenue increase to $105.7 million in fiscal Q3 2026, with subscription revenues up 15% [17][19]