Bumper month for PHEV sales in August

Zero emission-capable vehicles (PHEVs) enjoyed a successful August as a result of new models coming to market, with sales of plug-in hybrids increasing by 221.1%, although they still only accounted for 1 in 30 sales.

SMMT figures also showed that registrations of battery electric cars increased by 77.6% in August, accounting for 6.4% of sales. However, battery electric cars make up just 4.9% of registrations year to date, up from 1.1% in the same period last year.

Overall UK new car registrations declined by -5.8% in August, according to figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Just over 87,000 vehicles were registered during what is traditionally the quietest month of the year for new car sales.

While registrations to private buyers held relatively steady, down by 699 units in the month, demand from businesses of all sizes was much more subdued, with 2,650 fewer new cars joining UK fleets, down -5.5% on August 2019. Demand also fell across all segments except superminis, with the biggest declines in demand seen in the mini (-64.2%) and specialist sports (-41.9%) categories.

Overall, registrations remain down by -39.7% in the year to date, some 600,000 units behind this time in 2019, following coronavirus enforced lockdowns.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: "The decline is disappointing, following some brief optimism in July. However, given August is typically one the new car market’s quietest months, it’s important not to draw too many conclusions from these figures alone. With the all-important plate change month just around the corner, September is likely to provide a better barometer. As the nation takes steps to return to normality, protecting consumer confidence will be critical to driving a recovery."