- Auto Trader reports the EV market share is expected to hit 23% in 2025 but will miss the 28% ZEV target.
- Used EV stock rose by 32% in 2024, while petrol car availability is declining, marking a market shift.
- More brands and models mean manufacturers must adopt smarter data-driven strategies to attract buyers.
EVs gain momentum but still have obstacles to tackle to hit UK’s 2025 targets, Auto Trader reports
The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) market is steadily growing, but it’s not without obstacles. Auto Trader reports that in 2025, EVs are predicted to account for 23% of new car sales. While this marks progress, it falls short of the government’s ambitious 28% Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) target.
This year, EV market share is expected to hit 18%, well below the required 22%. Manufacturers are under pressure to meet stricter regulatory goals while navigating an increasingly competitive market.
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader’s Commercial Director, commented:
“It’s been another landmark year for automotive retailing, one that’s included a range of challenges, not least the introduction of ZEV targets, constrained supply, changing finance rules, and the budget, but also exceptionally strong used car demand, record levels of engagement on our platform, rapid speed of sale, and the stabilising of retail prices.
2025 is set for growth, but this year’s complexities will remain, and in some cases, tighten, particularly within the new car market, where a rapidly growing array of brands will be competing for the attention of an increasingly fickle new EV buyer. Brands and retailers alike cannot afford to standstill and will need to adopt a conquest mindset next year, as well as focusing on what they can excel at – delivering great product, a great experience, and a great performance, all of which we’ll continue to support through our technology, data and our investments.”
Used EVs are seeing a surge in availability
Stock on platforms like Auto Trader rose 32% year-over-year in 2024. However, petrol car listings have declined by 7% during the same period, marking a turning point. By 2027, there will be nearly one million fewer petrol cars in the UK car parc, signaling a significant shift in the market.
As EV adoption grows, competition and regulatory pressure will force brands to innovate. The race to meet targets and win over buyers has never been more intense. Each year feels like a landmark moment in the EV transition. However, with the ZEV mandate returning to 2030, 2025 will be a pivotal time for the UK’s transition.
