A higher percentage of electric vehicles were sold in the previous month than at any other time this year, as per industry data. Over a quarter (26.5%) of the cars sold in August were electric cars, according to statistics from the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
This marks the largest number of sales since December 2024 and coincides with the government’s implementation of financial incentives to assist drivers in transitioning to zero-emission vehicles. While the full range of grants was not accessible during the month, an additional 35 models became eligible for a £1,500 discount at the beginning of September.
Throughout August, more models became eligible for price reductions, potentially enticing more consumers to consider purchasing an electric vehicle in September.
The rise in the percentage of electric vehicle sales occurred despite an overall 2% decrease in purchases compared to the same period a year ago, which is typically the slowest month for car sales.
The data suggests that the automotive industry could be on track to meet the government’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, as stated by the Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU). This mandate dictates that new petrol and diesel cars cannot be sold after 2030.
In response to industry pressure, the government amended the mandate in April to allow for the sale of hybrid vehicles, which utilize both fuel and a battery, until 2035. Sales of new petrol and diesel vans are also permitted until 2035.
Until then, 28% of car sales must be electric this year, with the percentage increasing to 33% in 2026, 38% in 2027, and 66% in 2029, the final year before the ban on new combustion engine vehicles. Manufacturers face penalties for failing to meet these targets.
In the previous year, the target of having 22% of all car sales consist of purely electric vehicles was exceeded, with electric vehicles accounting for 24.3% of total sales in 2024.
The surge in electric vehicle sales can be attributed to a wider selection of models, discounts, and government incentives, according to the SMMT.
Furthermore, the ECIU highlighted that the cost savings associated with owning and operating an electric vehicle are attracting more motorists. «The demand for used electric vehicles is rising as they can provide savings of £1,600 per year in ownership and operating costs,» the ECIU stated. «This is significant for ordinary families as the availability of second-hand electric vehicles depends on new car sales, which enter the used market after approximately three to four years.»
SOURCE