August's BEV uptake highest recorded in 2025

Battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations rose by 14.9% to reach a market share of 26.5% – the highest this year, according to SMMT data.

The SMMT says that an increase in model choice, ongoing manufacturer discounts and some initial impact from the newly announced Electric Car Grant has helped the growth. 

BEV growth was only outpaced by plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) uptake, which rose by 69.4% to deliver an 11.8% market share. Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) uptake, meanwhile, fell by -13.9% to account for 11.4% of the market.

In the first eight months, the BEV share comprises 21.9% - below 2025’s zero emission vehicle mandate target of 28%.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive: "August was the best month yet this year for EV market share and, while it is often volatile due to low overall volumes, the overall trend is positive. September will be critical, with the new number plate factor typically driving around one in seven new car registrations for the year.

"There is now a vast choice of electric models across all segments and many consumers will also, for the first time in three years, benefit from a grant to help them switch to electric. With more models being added to the Government’s Electric Car grant each week, there is now every reason for drivers to make the switch, helping deliver both economic growth and decarbonisation."