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New registrations of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in May accounted for 21.9% of the total UK car market, according to figures from independent transport research organisation New Automotive.
The data shows:
The electric van sector has seen “especially strong” growth, with:
Meanwhile, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sales continue to decline:
Ben Nelmes, CEO of New Automotive, said the figures are:
“A clear indicator that the shift to EV is not just on track, but accelerating.”
He credited the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate as a key driver.
Fiona Howarth, Founder of Octopus Electric Vehicles, echoed this, stating:
“There’s been a clear shift in the market, with automakers offering new, cheaper electric models to improve consumer choice.”
By contrast, in the United States, EV uptake may face a slowdown due to legislative risks from the reconciliation bill, which could remove EV tax credits and increase taxes on EV drivers.
Despite global dominance, Tesla saw a 10% year-to-date drop in UK sales. Meanwhile:
Simon Smith, CCO of InstaVolt, said:
“The UK is a role model for how private businesses can roll out a world-class charging infrastructure. What’s important now is to continue to deliver what customers want, and make the experience easier than ever to tap, charge and go.”
While the rollout of home charging continues at pace, the public charging network remains vital—especially for urban residents without off-street parking.
John Lewis, CEO of char.gy, added:
“To keep pace with EV sales, CPOs must be just as ambitious. Imagine the numbers if everyone had access to affordable, convenient charging.”