New passenger car registrations in the UK experienced a slight decline of 0.2% year-on-year, totaling 140,786 units in December 2024.
UK car sales rise in 2024, EV demand slips
This decrease highlights manufacturers' ongoing challenges in boosting demand for electric vehicles (EVs) to meet mandated sales targets. Despite this end-of-year dip, the broader picture for 2024 was more positive, with new car registrations rising by 2.6% compared to the previous year. A total of 1,952,778 units were sold, marking the industry's second consecutive year of growth.
EVs achieved a record annual market share of 19.6%, yet this fell short of the levels required by government mandates. Alarmingly, private demand for EVs dropped significantly, with only 10% of private buyers opting for electric models—a proportion not seen since the early days of the pandemic. This trend underscores the challenges of transitioning to electric mobility, particularly in the private sector.
Industry urges stronger policies to boost EV adoption
In response, the industry welcomed a government-led review of sales mandate regulations but cautioned that more substantial and consistent policy support is essential. Without decisive action to address the affordability and infrastructure barriers deterring private consumers, the current demand trajectory risks falling far short of the long-term goals for widespread EV adoption.
