New car sales surge by 23%

The UK new car market grew 23.5% in November to 142,889 units.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), this represents the fourth consecutive month of growth.

Zero emission vehicle uptake also performed strongly, with newly registered battery electric vehicles (BEVs) up 34.2% to represent more than one in five new cars (20.5%).

However, the UK’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market fell by 22.2% to 24,352 units. But again, battery electric van (BEV) registrations increased, rising by 14.8% to reach 8.1% of the market. 

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Recovery for Britain’s new car market is back within our grasp, energised by electrified vehicles and the sector’s resilience in the face of supply and economic challenges. As the sector looks to ensure that growth is sustainable for the long term, urgent measures are required – not least a fair approach to driving EV adoption that recognises these vehicles remain more expensive, and measures to compel investment in a charging network that is built ahead of need. By doing so we can encourage consumer appetite across the country and accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero.”