Electric Car Sales Reach Record High in September
Sales of electric cars in the UK hit a new record in September, according to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Sales of pure electric cars (known as battery electric vehicles or BEVs) rose by almost one-third to 72,779. Plug-in hybrid cars also saw strong growth. Together, electric and hybrid cars made up more than half of all new cars sold in the UK last month.
SMMT said the rise was helped by carmakers offering discounts, more electric models to choose from, and the government’s new grant scheme.
Most BEVs — about 71% — were bought by businesses or car fleets, but the number of private buyers is also increasing. So far in 2025, fully electric cars make up over one in five (22%) of all new cars sold.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said electric vehicles are now “driving market growth after a slow summer.” He added that the government’s £3,750 grant, which cuts the price of eligible electric cars, helps make them more affordable for drivers.
In total, 312,887 new vehicles were registered in September — the best month since 2020.
The strong sales come despite challenges such as US tariffs and a cyber attack that forced Jaguar Land Rover to pause production.
The top-selling cars in September were the Kia Sportage, Ford Puma, and Nissan Qashqai. Two Chinese models — the Jaecoo 7 and BYD Seal U — also made it into the top 10.
So far, more than 20,000 people have benefited from the EV grants. The discount applies to new cars costing up to £37,000, with 36 models qualifying for at least £1,500 off.
Ian Plummer, chief commercial officer at Autotrader, said the grant has “given a real boost to the market,” noting that interest in new electric cars on Autotrader has risen by almost 50% since July — and for models with grants, interest has more than doubled.
Published: 4th October 2025
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