Wow, what an exciting month for the UK automotive market!
With a 7.1% rise in new car registrations in May, hitting 160,662 units, we're witnessing the strongest May performance since 2019. A substantial part of this growth is driven by private buyers, with a remarkable 17.2% increase in private registrations and EVs playing a critical role.
The figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicate that choice and competitive offers are attracting more consumers to go electric. BEV registrations surged by an impressive 34.2%, capturing a 27.3% share of the market in May - the highest monthly figure for 2026 to date. Private registrations now make up 40.9% of total registrations, up from 37.4% last year.
This is a clear sign that consumer appetite is leaning more towards electrified options, especially with the rise in BEV offerings by 25.6% since the start of the year.
Despite these positive trends, the industry still faces challenges in meeting the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requirements, with BEVs accounting for only 23.9% of year-to-date registrations versus the 33% target.
Kudos to the franchised dealers who continue to significantly invest in consumer education and facilities to support this transition.
Let's keep this momentum going!