In a significant step to net-zero, EVs hit 26% of UK car sales

Welcome to Net Zero News, where we bring you the latest developments driving the UK’s transition to a net-zero future. This October, Battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) claimed a remarkable 26% share of all new car sales, setting a new high for 2025, while plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) rose to 12%, meaning 40% of new registrations came with a plug.

Net Zero News can reveal that data published by New AutoMotive shows this surge in zero-emission vehicle uptake reflects growing consumer confidence and expanding model ranges. Sales of BEVs have climbed steadily throughout the year, with October’s figures representing the strongest monthly share since the start of 2025. The report covers both private and fleet registrations across Britain, signalling robust market demand.

In a significant step towards the UK’s net-zero goals, this shift aligns with the government’s transport decarbonisation commitments, including the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030. Manufacturers have invested heavily in electric powertrains, battery production and software integration, while dealers across the country have ramped up showroom availability and test drive opportunities. Net Zero News understands this forms part of a broader industrial strategy to bolster the UK’s position as a hub for low-carbon automotive innovation.

This momentum matters because road transport accounts for nearly a quarter of the nation’s CO₂ emissions. Accelerating the transition to electrified vehicles is central to meeting the UK’s legally binding target to cut greenhouse gases by at least 78% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels. The October figures suggest that consumer behaviour is shifting in line with policy ambitions, which could unlock deeper infrastructure investment and improved air quality in urban centres.

Key financial incentives such as the Plug-in Car Grant and reduced Benefit-in-Kind rates for company cars have underpinned this growth. Charging infrastructure providers, backed by Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (EVI) and private investors, are deploying rapid and ultra-rapid chargers at motorway services, local streets and workplace car parks. The Department for Transport has committed £1 billion towards charging network expansion, while energy networks regulator Ofgem has launched flexibility schemes to support grid upgrades.

Net Zero News understands this market shift sits within the framework of the Transport Decarbonisation Plan and the Advanced Driver and Vehicle Automation bill, which aims to ensure safe deployment of low-emission technologies. Regional strategies, such as Scotland’s net zero transport vision and Wales’s electric transport roadmap, further complement national policies, ensuring cross-border consistency in charging standards, grid resilience and consumer protections.

Communities stand to benefit from reduced tailpipe emissions and quieter streets, with local authorities in London, Birmingham and Manchester already reporting improvements in air quality indices. The automotive supply chain is also evolving, with jobs created in battery manufacturing, software development and charger installation. However, challenges remain in addressing charging accessibility in rural areas and delivering equitable leasing options for lower-income households.

Looking ahead, Net Zero News anticipates that December’s figures will be crucial ahead of the COP26 commemorations and in the run-up to Finance Bill consultations. Industry stakeholders will be monitoring whether incentives are extended beyond their current end dates, while local authorities prepare to roll out next-generation chargepoint procurement frameworks. The UK’s electric vehicle journey continues, driven by policy, innovation and changing customer preferences.

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