Official Figures Show Record UK Registrations for Electric Vehicles in September

Preliminary figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicate a record number of new electric vehicle registrations in the United Kingdom for the month of September. The data reveals a significant year-on-year increase in demand for zero and low-emission vehicles, largely attributed to the reintroduction of a government-led subsidy scheme.
According to the report, registrations of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rose by nearly one-third to 72,800 units when compared with September of the previous year. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) segment experienced even more substantial growth, with registrations increasing by 56% to 38,300 units. Collectively, electrified vehicles accounted for a majority share of the total market.
This surge in the alternative fuel vehicle sector contributed to a 14% uplift in the overall new car market, which recorded 312,900 registrations. While this represents the strongest September performance since 2020, the total volume remains considerably lower than pre-pandemic benchmarks, reflecting persistent pressure on consumer spending due to prevailing economic conditions.
The government’s grant, valued at up to £3,750, was reinstated in July following representations from the automotive industry regarding challenges in meeting the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate. This mandate sets a target for BEV sales to constitute 28% of the market in the current year; the year-to-date share stands at 22.1%.
Policy analysts have noted that recent amendments to the ZEV mandate, which introduced greater “flexibilities,” have effectively lowered the compliance threshold for manufacturers. Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding the longevity of the grant scheme, as its limitation to 400,000 units may be reached ahead of schedule due to the high rate of uptake.