Sales of EVs reached 23 per cent of new vehicle market share in August, meaning manufacturers exceeded this month’s zero emission vehicle (ZEV) target - according to NGO New AutoMotive’s latest Electric Car Count.

There was a 10 per cent growth in EV market share with nearly 18,000 units sold in August and hybrid vehicles also increased to 35 per cent market share in July, meaning petrol only cars, which fell to 36 per cent, continue to decline and will soon be outsold by other types.

Despite reports of slowing interest, EV sales took a higher UK market share than at any point since December 2022. It also bucks the rest of Europe and shows the strength of the UK market.

Growth in EV sales is coming from a broad range of brands, notably led by BMW, Mercedes and the Stellantis-owned brands. Almost a third of BMWs sold in the last 12 months are battery electric, and a quarter of new Mercedes cars have no tailpipe.

However, several Chinese brands recorded a significant fall in sales, defying expectations of a flood of vehicles from China following the introduction of EU tariffs. Tesla has also lost market share each month in the last year.

Ben Nelmes, CEO of New AutoMotive, said: “The Government can have confidence in following through on its manifesto commitment to reintroduce the 2030 ban on sales of petrol and diesel cars.”

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