The latest new car registration figures from the UK’s Society of Motor Manufacturers (SMMT) have been published, indicating that nearly a third of new cars registered last month were fully-electric models, as an increasing number of drivers make the switch amid rising running costs for petrol and diesel models.
UK EV sales remain up year-on-year
A total of 28,063 fully-electric cars were registered in August, marking a significant 27.7% year-on-year rise compared to August 2025 (though still not as impressive as this July, which saw a whopping 49% year-on-year increase). BEVs also tracked as the second most popular drivetrain type, beaten only by pure-petrol cars, while far outperforming diesels, hybrid electrics, and plug-in hybrids.
When it comes to specific EV models sold in August, Tesla continues to dominate in the UK. The Model 3 held the crown as the most registered EV, with the Model Y close behind in second. Rounding out the top five were the Vauxhall Frontera Electric, the Jaecoo E5, and the Mercedes CLA Electric.
August has historically been a slow month for new car registrations in the UK, as customers and dealers hold off until the new numberplate comes into effect on 1st September. September’s SMMT figures should therefore give a clearer picture of EV adoption, with registration volumes likely to jump further for EVs. Buyers now have over 170 fully electric models to choose from on the UK market, with an option to suit every budget, from affordable cars to large electric SUVs. And with range on some new EVs now exceeding 500 miles, alongside ultra-rapid charging speeds, any perceived barriers to going electric are fast disappearing.
Despite the impressive year-on-year rises in EV registrations we’ve seen consistently this year, the early review of the ZEV mandate could still lead to targets being watered down amid pressure from some manufacturers.
The industry reacts to August figures:
Delvin Lane, CEO of InstaVolt, commented:
“Thirty per cent of new cars being electric is another sign that EVs are moving firmly into the mainstream. For charging operators like InstaVolt, it validates the investment we’re already making to build infrastructure ahead of demand. The record growth in electric vans is another important signal. More electric cars and vans mean greater utilisation of the charging network and an even stronger commercial case for continued investment. The infrastructure is growing, the vehicles are arriving and the two are increasingly moving in step.”
James Court, Public Policy Director at Octopus Electric Vehicles, added:
“Today’s figures are clear: the ZEV mandate is working – and the market is actually ahead of schedule. The industry is comfortably beating its real-world target, so there’s no excuse for weakening the rules now. The worst thing we could do now is slam the brakes on a success story that is gathering pace. What drivers, manufacturers and investors need is certainty to keep the UK firmly in the EV fast lane.”
Jamie Hamilton, automotive partner and head of electric vehicles at Deloitte, said:
“The strong growth in new car registrations in August is another encouraging sign for the UK automotive market. Despite continued pressure on household budgets, consumers are still demonstrating a willingness to invest in newer vehicles, supported by greater choice, competitive pricing and improving consumer confidence.
While potential changes to the UK zero emission vehicle mandate remain on the cards, consumers continue to carry momentum in the transition to electric. As manufacturers bring more affordable models to market at pace, and consumers become increasingly comfortable with the new technology, demand is expected to strengthen further. However, maintaining this trajectory will require ongoing investment in charging infrastructure and continued efforts to make electric vehicles accessible to a broader range of buyers. Further clarity on long term policy will help to support the wider sector, particularly the used car market, to create certainty around affordable supply.”
