Projected Electric Vehicle Sales in the UK for 2025 and 2026, Aiming for a 28% Market Share for Battery-Electric Vehicles
In the coming years, the United Kingdom's car market is set for a significant transformation as the focus shifts towards zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). According to recent forecasts, the market is expected to surpass two million units in 2026 for the first time since 2019, with nearly 40% of all new vehicles sold being electrified.
The growth in electrification is driven by a combination of factors, including consumer preference, corporate fleet demand, and government policies. The UK government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate, currently under consultation, will require a significant percentage of new car sales to be ZEVs from 2024 onwards.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) will continue to hold a significant market share, with predictions suggesting they will account for 10.8% of all new registrations, equating to 218,000 units. PHEV registrations are forecasted to grow by 18.4% in 2025 to 198,000 units, capturing 10.2% of the market. These vehicles will continue to appeal to consumers who are not yet ready to transition to fully electric vehicles.
However, the future of the automotive market lies with Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). In 2025, BEV sales are projected to increase by 21.4% to 462,000 units, securing a 23.7% market share. By 2026, BEVs are expected to reinforce their position as the future of the market, with a market share of 28.3% and volumes reaching 570,000 units.
The transition to ZEVs will become increasingly seamless as technology advances and costs decline. Continued investment in fast-charging networks is crucial to eliminate range concerns, especially in rural areas where charging accessibility is still lacking. The rapid deployment of charging infrastructure, pricing, and consumer confidence are major factors influencing the adoption of BEVs and PHEVs.
The growth in BEV sales is attributed to expanding charging infrastructure, declining battery costs, consumer incentives, and improved model availability. The European automotive industry, supported by studies from the Fraunhofer-Institut and ACEA, is planning to invest in the development of charging stations specifically for Electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (E-Lorries) in the UK. Identifying suitable and frequently used locations for investment remains a challenge.
Ionity, a leading charging network operator, is making substantial investments in the expansion of the charging infrastructure in the UK in 2025 and 2026, contingent upon the rise of electric vehicles, particularly through the electrification of corporate and rental vehicle fleets, which are seen as key levers for the charging infrastructure sector.
The next few years will be pivotal in determining the UK's progress towards its net-zero ambitions. With the electrification of the car market gathering pace, it seems that the UK is on track to meet its ambitious goals.
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