EVs drive strongest August for new UK car sales in years

The UK new car market has recorded its strongest August performance since the introduction of the biannual plate change, extending a steady run of growth to nine consecutive months.

Figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that overall registrations rose by 13.7% to reach 94,236 units during what is traditionally one of the quietest months of the year, as buyers often defer purchases ahead of September’s new vehicle registrations.

Growth was observed across all sectors. Private demand surged by 19.0% to account for 40.8% of the market, while fleet registrations climbed 10.1%, making up 57.2% of total sales. The smaller business sector also posted a 14.5% increase.

While petrol registrations saw a dip, electrified powertrains drove the market forward at a rapid pace. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles surged by 39.8%, and hybrid electric vehicles rose by 26.3%.

Crucially, battery electric vehicles provided a major boost to the market. BEV registrations grew by 27.7%, capturing a 29.8% market share – marking a significant seasonal spike aided by lower overall summer volumes.

Manufacturers continue expanding their zero-emission line-ups, supported by heavy discounting and expanding public charging infrastructure. However, despite reaching a record 25.6% uptake across the first eight months of the year, EV sales remain below the government’s 33% headline mandate target, prompting calls for realistic regulatory alignment.

Says Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive:

 “August was a bright spot for the new car market and another strong month for electric car uptake, showing that motorists are responding to the huge choice and compelling offers available.

“But August is a low-volume month so September will be the acid test. The industry is doing everything it can to help drivers switch, but mandate targets must be grounded in the reality of demand.

“The Government’s review is the right move so we can ensure the transition is kept on track, consumer choice protected and the jobs and investment necessary to deliver net zero and economic growth are safeguarded.”