BEV Registrations Surge in 2023’s Strong Start

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In an encouraging turn of events for the electric vehicle (EV) market, recent data reveals that one in four cars registered in February 2025 was an electric vehicle. This statistic, sourced from both the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and New AutoMotive, underscores the growing acceptance and enthusiasm surrounding electric vehicles among consumers.

The figures from New AutoMotive indicate that battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) made up an impressive 25.7% of the market share in February, slightly shy of the mandated zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) target of 28%. This upward trend in electric vehicle registrations is mirrored in the findings from the SMMT, which also report a significant increase in the uptake of electrified vehicles. Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) saw a rise of 19.3%, while hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) experienced a growth of 7.9%. Specifically, BEV registrations surged by 41.7%, totalling 21,244 units, and securing a 25.3% market share, a marked increase from 17.7% just a year prior.

Looking ahead, the SMMT anticipates a further boost in EV uptake in March, as consumers are likely to seize the opportunity presented by the new 2025 registration plates. This surge in registrations will also coincide with a critical deadline: from 1 April, the introduction of the Electric Car Subsidy (ECS) will add an additional cost of £2,125 over six years to BEVs priced above £40,000. As a result, buyers are urged to act swiftly to avoid this financial burden.

Interestingly, the data from New AutoMotive highlights a substantial decline in petrol vehicle registrations, which have fallen below even the levels observed during the pandemic. For the year to date in 2025, petrol vehicles have accounted for only 31% of the market, and this figure continues to dwindle, with a mere 29.2% recorded last month. This decline is indicative of a broader shift in consumer preferences towards electric mobility.

Moreover, the figures indicate that manufacturers have already met the ZEV mandate targets for 2025, achieving compliance ten months ahead of schedule. This early achievement is largely attributed to surplus credits accrued from the CO2 scheme related to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sales. Notably, petrol vehicle registrations have plummeted by an astonishing 34% since this time last year.

In terms of specific brands, Tesla has witnessed a resurgence in sales, with an 8% increase year-on-year. However, traditional automotive manufacturers have also performed admirably within the EV sector. Brands such as BMW, Cupra, Citroen, Ford, Mercedes, Mini, Renault, Skoda, Volvo, and Volkswagen have all reported positive sales figures. Notably, only five of the top 25 EV brands experienced a decline in registrations, including Audi, Volvo, MG, Toyota, and Nissan.

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT, commented on the latest figures, stating, “Although February’s figures show a subdued overall market, the good news is that electric car uptake is increasing, albeit at huge cost to manufacturers in terms of market support. It is always dangerous, however, to draw conclusions from a single month, especially one as small and volatile as February.” He continued, “With the all-important March number plate change now upon us, and tax changes taking effect in April that will, perversely, dissuade EV purchases, we expect significant demand for these new products next month – but, long term, EV consumers need carrots, not ever more sticks.”

In response to the registration data, Vicky Edmonds, Chief Executive of EVA England, expressed optimism about the current performance of the EV market. “We’re seeing a really strong performance from the EV market this year that is bucking perceptions and the trend of falling petrol and diesel sales. Yesterday saw two significant milestones reached: across new car sales, 1 in 4 drivers are now choosing EVs, and we have over 75,000 public chargepoints across the UK. This shows that consumers are responding well to competitive EV prices and a charging network that is constantly improving,” she remarked.

Edmonds emphasised the importance of making electric vehicles accessible to all, stating, “The priority now is for every driver to have the opportunity to consider an EV next. This means ensuring EVs are truly affordable for lower-income households, and a charging network that is fully accessible and affordable for all drivers.”

Similarly, Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), noted the ongoing momentum for BEVs in 2025, with a year-to-date market share of 22.8%, slightly below the ZEV mandate quota of 28% for the year. “Last month, NFDA submitted its response to the Government consultation on proposals to support the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles. A key focus of NFDA’s response is the urgent need for incentives, emphasising that stimulating consumer demand is crucial for driving market growth,” Robinson commented.

Looking to the future, Robinson anticipates that the upcoming March figures will benefit from the seasonal plate change, providing a much-needed boost to the market. “Dealerships are well-prepared for this rapidly changing landscape, and it is important to note that next month will bring several changes, including EVs becoming subject to Vehicle Excise Duty,” she added.

The landscape of the automotive industry is undeniably shifting, with electric vehicles increasingly becoming the preferred choice among consumers. As we move towards a more sustainable future, the rise of electric vehicles represents a significant step towards achieving net zero emissions. The important milestones achieved so far reflect a growing commitment to cleaner, greener transport solutions, but challenges remain. Ensuring that electric vehicles are accessible and affordable for all will be crucial in driving this transition further.

As we continue to monitor the developments in the EV sector, it is clear that the road ahead is paved with opportunity. The collaboration between manufacturers, government bodies, and consumer advocacy groups will be vital in shaping the future of transportation in the UK. Together, we can pave the way for a cleaner, greener future. Stay tuned to Net Zero News for the latest updates and insights on the journey towards net zero!

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