Today (Thursday 4 September), the Society of Motor Manufacturers
and Traders (SMMT) has published new car
sales statistics for August 2025 which show that battery electric
vehicles (BEVs) grew to a 26.5% share of the market, the highest
record in 2025.
Transport Secretary said:
"Our Electric Car Grant is driving down costs, making it cheaper
than ever to go electric whilst putting money back in people's
pockets as part of the Plan for Change. This summer we've
announced 35 models as eligible for the discounts and results
speak for themselves – EV sales share in August is up 24% on
July.
"Whilst we know the automotive sector continues to face global
pressures, this Government is firmly on the side of industry,
backing UK manufacturers with our modern industrial
strategy, as the zero emission vehicle mandate gives
industry the certainty it needs.”
Background
- The £650m Electric Car Grant scheme is slashing prices for
consumers and boosting growth in the sector, with eligible models
seeing up to an 80% increase in interest amongst potential buyers
(see Autotrader data here).
- There are 35 models now eligible, see full list here.
- For more information on the ECG, see here.
- A range of flexibilities allow manufactures to comply in a
way that makes sense for them, including selling fewer zero
emission vehicles than the headline target if they make up for it
other ways.
