EVs boost used sales

The UK’s used car market has grown for the sixth consecutive quarter as an increasing number of buyers switch to electric vehicles (EVs), according to new figures from the Society of Motor manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The overall sector was up 7.2 per cent for the three months to the end of June after figures rose from 1.83 million sales during the same period a year ago to 1.96m.

Transactions have risen every month this year, with the first six months up 6.8 per cent to 3.93m units – marking the best growth since 2016 and the best first half year since 2019. 

A breakdown of the numbers shows the number of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) finding new owners came in at 46,773 between April and June, an increase of 52.6 per cent.

This gave BEVs a record 2.4 per cent share of the market, up from 1.7 per cent in the same period last year. 

Sales of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and hybrids 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 accounted for 92.4 per cent of all used vehicle sales, down from 94.3 per cent. 

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, says: “It’s encouraging to see the used car market continue its recovery, with choice and affordability rejuvenated by the new car sector’s sustained run of growth. 

“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.”