- New data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers &
Traders (SMMT) shows a record 86,120 new EVs were sold in
March
- Comes as the Government's Electric Car Grant is helping cut
upfront costs for drivers by up to £3750 when purchasing
new EVs
- Also as recent global pressures and rising fuel costs
underline the need to move away from volatile fossil fuels and
towards cleaner, homegrown energy sources.
A Department for Transport spokesperson said:
“These figures prove drivers across the UK are going electric in
record numbers, with 86,120 new EVs sold in March alone - the
highest ever recorded.
"Our Electric Car Grant is making EVs cheaper and more accessible
than ever. Over 85,000 drivers have already saved up to £3,750
when buying a new EV, and we're saving renters £500 off the cost
of installing home chargers, unlocking cheaper charging rates for
residents - and with global price fluctuations at the petrol
pumps, making the switch has never made more sense”.
Background:
- According to latest SMMT data,
86,120 battery electric cars were sold in the UK in March 2026.
This is the highest amount by volume ever sold in the UK in a
month.
-
The Department also
recently published the 2024 ZEV Mandate compliance
figures which show manufacturers met the 22% targets via sales
and in-built flexibilities, whilst provisional data shows they
are on track to do the same in 2025.
- Manufacturers can use a mix of EV sales, non-ZEV
CO₂ emissions reductions, banking, trading and limited
borrowing to meet their obligations.
- We know we need to support businesses in the transition to
electric and that's why we're investing over £7.5 billion to grow
the market, boost EV manufacturing, increase sales and build up
the UK charging network.
