The UK car market saw a significant growth in August 2023, with electric vehicles (EVs) registering a 72.3% increase from last year. According to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), 17,243 EVs were sold in August, accounting for one-fifth of the total 85,657 new cars registered in the month.
The overall car market grew by 24.4%, driven by a boost in large fleet and business registrations. SMMT said that August is usually a slow month for car sales, as many buyers wait for the new numberplate change in September. However, the sector has shown resilience and entered a second year of growth.
The bestselling brand in August was Volkswagen Group, followed by Ford Motor Company and Audi. Petrol cars remained the most popular choice among buyers, despite the rising demand for EVs.
However, the industry also faces some challenges, as the government plans to introduce a mandate on the proportion of EVs that manufacturers should sell. SMMT warned that this could have a negative impact on the sector, as manufacturers still lack clarity on the details of the policy. The industry body urged the government to provide certainty and support for businesses, as well as incentives and infrastructure for drivers to switch to EVs.
Now more than ever, government must match action to ambition, ensuring there are the incentives and infrastructure in place to convince drivers to make the switch to EVs.