August new car market jumps 13.7% as BEVs hit record 30% share
- 4 September 2026
UK new car registrations grew 13.7% in August as battery electric vehicles claimed a record 29.8% market share ahead of the crucial September plate change.
UK new car registrations grew 13.7% in August as battery electric vehicles claimed a record 29.8% market share ahead of the crucial September plate change.
New vehicle licensing statistics released by the Department for Transport show the rapid advancement of electric car adoption, particularly following this year’s pump-price roller coaster.
The UK new car market soared 24.0% in April as the market rebounded from the introduction of new taxes for EVs last year.
The UK new car market remained stable in October, despite a slight drop in fleet registrations, as battery electric vehicles drove growth.
Electric vehicles continue to rise despite a contracting new car market but the automotive industry says targets will be missed without urgent tax changes.
David Borland, EY UK & Ireland automotive leader, on the latest new car registration figures and the challenges for 2025 of ensuring the EV transition.
Registrations of new electric cars soared in July but concerns for private buyer demand remain paramount.
The UK new car market has recorded its best year since the pandemic on the back of surging fleet investment but BEV market share declined.