Battery electric vehicle uptake rises 72.3% in August

Battery electric vehicle uptake has risen by 72.3% this August, to secure a 20.1% market share - this is the highest recorded since last December.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) figures also showed that plug-in hybrid uptake rose significantly, by 70.0%, to account for 7.7% of new registrations.

Hybrid volumes remained relatively stable with a 6.8% increase, comprising 10.0% of the market.

Overall, the new car market grew 24.4% in August with 85,657 new vehicles registered.

The increase was fuelled by a surge in registrations by large fleets, rising 58.4% to 51,951 units, while business registrations grew 39.4% to 1,635 units. Private demand softened by -8.1%, compared with a supply-constrained 2022 market.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: "With the automotive industry beginning a second year of growth, recovery is underway with EVs energising the market. But with a new Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate due to come into force in less than 120 days, manufacturers still await the details. Businesses cannot plan on the basis of consultations, they need certainty. And 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."