EV sales break new records in the UK, spurred by grant scheme

Electrified vehicles made up more than half of the cars sold in September in the UK as the government’s Electric Car Grant was introduced.

New car sales increased by 13.7% last month to reach 312,891 units – and much of this growth can be attributed to electric or hybrid vehicles, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). 

September saw 72,779 new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) registered in the UK (the highest ever monthly volume), as well as 47,885 hybrids (HEVs) and 38,308 plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). All three types experienced tremendous growth compared to last year: up 29.1% for BEVs, 23.5% for HEVs and a whopping 56.4% for PHEVs.

In comparison, petrol car registrations were up 2.4% and diesel car registrations dropped by 28.2% year on year.

Electric Car Grant boosting take-up

For SMMT, battery-electric vehicles’ success was driven by a range of factors, including manufacturer discounting, greater model options, and the introduction of the Electric Car Grant – which offers grants of up to £3,750 for electric vehicles priced at £37,000 or below.

Qualifying models under the grant scheme only make up 25% of available BEVs, outpaced the growth of the overall electric market.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Electrified vehicles are powering market growth after a sluggish summer – and with record ZEV uptake, massive industry investment is paying off, despite demand still trailing ambition. The Electric Car Grant will help to break down one of the barriers holding back more drivers from making the switch – and tackling remaining roadblocks, by unlocking infrastructure investment and driving down energy costs, will be crucial to the success of the industry and the environmental goals we share.”

These latest numbers highlight the importance of government support to help develop the EV market, helping to break down affordability barriers. 

Across the Channel, those with a lead in the EV market are trying to convince the EU not to further loosen its car emissions rules – arguing that the market conditions are there to push for electrification.