The UK’s used car market has grown 7.2 per cent in the second quarter, marking sixth successive quarter of growth, driven by used battery electric vehicles recording their highest ever market share at 2.4 per cent, as sales soar 52.6 per cent.

The figures published from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) saw an additional 131,128 sales compared with the same period in 2023, as sustained growth in the new car market fuelled choice and availability in the used sector.

Increasing numbers of buyers are switching to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with 46,773 finding new owners between April and June. Sales of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and hybrids (HEVs) also grew, up 25.2 per cent to 21,580 units and 43.6 per cent to 78,782 units respectively. Petrol and diesel powered cars still accounted for 92.4 per cent of all vehicles.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The increased supply of electric vehicles to second and third owners is helping more motorists make the switch – underlining the importance of energising the new EV market to support a fair transition for all.”

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