Sales of new electric cars reached a higher record last month, according to the figures.
Industry Corps The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Merchants (SMMT) said that 72,779 new electric battery cars were recorded in the United Kingdom in September, 29.1% more than the same month in 2024.
The SMMT said this was partly driven by the subsidy of electric cars of the Department of Transportation (DFT), which “provided additional impulse in certain segments.”
It also attributed the increase to discounts by manufacturers and a growing choice of models.
Pure Battery Electric New Cars took a market share of 23.3% in September, compared to 20.5% of the previous year.
According to the mandate of the zero government emission vehicle (ZEV), at least 28% of new cars sold by each manufacturer in the United Kingdom this year must be zero emissions, which generally means pure electricity.
The general new car market grew by 13.7% last month compared to September 2024, with 312,887 records.
This was the best September performance since 2020.
September is a critical month for the automotive industry since the introduction of new numbers plates attracts many buyers.
SMMT's executive president Mike Hawes said: “Electrified vehicles are promoting market growth after a slow summer, and with a record acceptance of Zev, the massive investment of the industry is paying off, despite the demand even of ambition.
“The electric car subsidy will help break down one of the barriers that prevent more drivers from doing the switch.
“Addressing the remaining obstacles to unlock infrastructure investment and reduce energy costs will be crucial for the success of the industry and the environmental objectives we share.”
September was the first full month when new EV buyers could receive subsidies worth £ 1,500 or £ 3,750, depending on sustainability criteria.
The DFT has invested £ 650 million in the scheme.
The Secretary of Transportation, Heidi Alexander, said: “Our discounts have caused an increase in the sale of electric cars, making them cheaper and within reach of more homes than ever.
“By reducing costs for families, we are supporting the industry, supporting British jobs and promoting growth.”
A study by the Green Transport Research Organization, New Automotive, published on Friday, warned that subsidies can be a “loss of money” due to the lack of evidence that “which leads consumers to consider buying cars that would not have bought anyway.”
The DFT described the “incorrect” analysis.
Tanya Sinclair, executive director of Lobby Group Electric Vehicles UK, said: “The drivers are changing to Electric in thousands, even as adoption naturally flows and flows with seasonality, models launches, economic confidence and load perceptions.
“What matters most is to guarantee constant growth through long -term consumer education.”
