Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid cars are gaining traction across the UK, according to figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The figures show that manufacturers of Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs) are benefitting from a wider economic confidence that has helped drive renewed growth in the UK’s new car market. According to SMMT, July saw 172,907 new cars registered – a 6.6% increase from June alone. Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “July saw the new car market extend its record period of growth to a 29th month, as confident consumers took advantage of an array of new products and attractive finance deals on the latest fuel-efficient new cars.”
Number of plug-in and hybrid cars registered in the UK during 2014
The graph below shows the number of ULEVs registered according to SMMT’s figures:
.
Barriers to EV adoption in the UK
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has been evaluating Brits’ attitudes towards EVs through a series of qualitative surveys. The findings from the department’s latest wave are summarised below:
