March saw a record high for electric car registrations in the UK, with demand surging amid rising fuel prices, according to new data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Electrified vehicles accounted for 196,059 registrations last month, with battery electric cars totalling 86,120—a 24.2% increase year-on-year—and plug-in hybrid registrations up 46.9%.
The surge comes as fuel prices continue to climb due to the conflict in the Middle East. Average unleaded petrol prices have risen by about 18% since late February to 157p a litre, while diesel prices have jumped by a third to 189p a litre, according to the RAC. The SMMT suggested that these rising costs may spark more interest in electric vehicles (EVs).
Overall, the new car market grew by 6.6% in March compared with last year, with 380,627 new vehicles registered—the best monthly performance since 2019. March is typically the busiest month for new car sales due to numberplate changes. However, SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes noted that much of March's performance likely came from orders placed before the conflict, which now threatens to raise the cost of living and undermine consumer confidence.
Ian Plummer, chief customer officer at Autotrader, reported a surge in inquiries for new EVs last month, with interest picking up sharply as fuel prices rose. “If that online intent converts into sales, progress will follow,” he said, adding that the market may be approaching an EV affordability tipping point.
Despite the growth, the SMMT raised concerns that EVs’ market share stood at about 22% in March, well below the government's zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate requiring at least 33% of sales to be zero-emission this year. Hawes called for an urgent review of the transition to electric. A Department for Transport spokesperson highlighted support for businesses through investment in EV manufacturing and charging infrastructure, as well as grants of up to £3,750 for new EVs.
