Five of the largest EV manufacturers in UK market increased their sales last month compared to 12 months ago, according to the latest data from New AutoMotive’s Electric Car Count.
The monthly report is the most up-to-date and comprehensive electric vehicle sales data in the UK, and reveals that 15 out of 20 manufacturers are selling more EVs than they did a year ago.
Despite Toyota’s CEO predicting that battery electric vehicles would never account for more than 30% of sales, the company sold its highest ever number of UK BEV sales ever, reaching 20% of its market share. The company has also stepped up on vans –– with 7% of its sales being BEVs, its third highest month ever.
Kia also had their best month since January 2023, whilst Mercedes Benz is also experiencing an upwards trend. Meanwhile, Tesla sales were behind both MG and BMW for the first time since October 2022. Only 5 firms saw a drop in EV sales last month, with VW being the only manufacturer to see their market share fall more than 20%, a level last seen in February 2021.
After dominating battery electric van sales for much of 2022 and the whole of 2023, Vauxhall has lost top spot to VW, which sold more BEV vans than ever before, whilst second placed Renault reached a market share not seen since March 2021.
Ben Nelmes, CEO of New AutoMotive, said, “The country has passed a major milestone by surpassing 1million EVs, and it’s great to see another 20,000 motorists discovering the benefits of going electric – cutting their running costs, enjoying a better driving experience, and doing their bit for the environment.
“However, the job isn’t done yet. Many consumers have been put off buying an electric car by misinformation about EVs and charging infrastructure, and the government now needs to address this.”
He added, “If we’re to build on the momentum we’re seeing and accelerate the UK’s transition, ministers should work with industry to promote the benefits of going electric and tackle the myths surrounding electric cars.
“We need to make sure as many people as possible can go electric. We’ll then see Britain pull into the fast lane on the road to cheaper, cleaner transport.”
