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The UK Electric Vehicle Market: Rapid Growth and Expanding Options


The UK electric vehicle market is evolving at a rapid pace, offering more options than ever for UK drivers looking to make the switch to electric. According to recent Solera cap hpi data, the diversity of electric vehicles available in the UK is expanding, allowing consumers to choose the best model to suit their needs.

Surge in BEV Options in the UK

Over the past year, the number of battery electric vehicle (BEV) variants has grown by 66%. If you’re considering a switch to an electric car, there are now plenty of options across various price points and features. Over the past four years, the number of BEV brands in the UK has risen by 95%, with no sign of slowing down.

A Range of New BEV Models in the UK Market

The variety of BEV models available to UK drivers has also increased significantly. Between 2020 and 2024, the number of BEV models grew by an astounding 246%, and in the past year alone, this figure rose by 39%. The UK electric vehicle market now offers a wide array of choices, whether you’re looking for a small city car or a larger model suited for longer journeys.

Smaller EV Models Gaining Popularity

An emerging trend in the UK electric vehicle market is the growing demand for smaller BEV models. While larger electric cars have traditionally dominated, more compact options like superminis and city cars are now making their mark. These vehicles are not only more affordable but also practical for everyday urban driving, adding a more diverse range of options to the market.

A Greater Variety of Reliable Electric Vehicles

Matt Freeman, Managing Consultant at Solera cap hpi Consulting, highlights that as of January, around 132 new EV models were available in the UK, making up a third of all new cars. This growing variety is important for consumers, as it ensures there’s an electric vehicle to meet every need, from range and performance to affordability.

Incentives and Discounts Boosting EV Sales

Manufacturers are offering discounts and incentives to encourage consumers to make the switch to electric. Many used EVs are priced similarly to or even lower than their petrol counterparts. This makes electric vehicles an even more appealing option for first-time buyers, especially with improvements in range, affordability, and charging infrastructure.

The Future of the UK Electric Vehicle Market

Looking ahead, the UK electric vehicle market is set for even more exciting developments. The Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires 28% of new car sales to be zero-emission by 2025, is encouraging manufacturers to expand their electric vehicle portfolios. In the coming years, we can expect a broader variety of electric vehicles, including SUVs, family cars, and compact city models.

Upcoming Electric Vehicle Models in the UK Market

Exciting new electric vehicles are set to arrive in the UK market in 2025, including models like the Renault 5 Turbo 3 E, Range Rover EV, BMW iX3 2025, Audi A6 e-tron, and a new electric Jaguar. These models will add further variety and offer even more options for UK drivers.

New Manufacturers in the UK Electric Vehicle Market

New players like BYD and Leapmotor from China are also entering the UK electric vehicle market, bringing more choices and more affordable options to UK consumers. Their presence will help increase diversity and accessibility in the market, making the switch to electric vehicles more attainable for everyone.

Now is the Time to Switch to an Electric Vehicle

If you’ve been thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle, now is the perfect time. With more models available, better prices, and improving infrastructure, electric driving is becoming easier and more practical in the UK. Whether you’re after a small city car or a larger family vehicle, the future of electric driving is bright.

Protect Your Investment with an HPI Check

Before buying a used electric vehicle, be sure to complete an HPI check. This check provides a detailed report on the car’s history, helping you make a confident purchase and protect your investment. Find out more about the vehicle’s history and make sure it’s the right choice for you.