Latest UK new registrations at May 2026
- The UK’s new car market delivered its strongest May performance since before the pandemic, with registrations rising 7.1% to 160,662 units, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The performance was the best recorded for the month since 2019, although still -12.6% behind pre-pandemic levels.
- The gradual shift in consumer demand for new technologies continues to reshape the market. Registrations of petrol and diesel cars fell by -7.1% and -2.2%, respectively, as electrified vehicles gained ground. Hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) uptake rose 1.8% and plug-in hybrid deliveries grew 23.9% to take an enlarged 13.8% market share. Battery electric vehicle (BEV) uptake, meanwhile, increased 34.2% to take 27.3% of the market, the highest recorded so far in 2026.
- The uplift reflects both expanding model choice and sustained competition, particularly in the electric vehicle market where substantial manufacturer discounting continues to play a significant role in driving uptake. Government support, including the Electric Car Grant, has also helped stimulate demand, alongside rising consumer interest amid wider economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
“Britain’s car buyers are responding to a market offering more choice than ever, from both new and familiar brands, resulting in a robust May. The EV transition is progressing, but consumer uptake still lags behind even today’s targets, let alone the ambition set out in the latest Carbon Budget.
While industry shares the long-term ambition, the pathway to Net Zero must be credible. It cannot come at the cost of lost competitiveness and deindustrialisation. A review of the transition is now urgent to ensure ambition matches market realities and we have a sustainable path to road transport decarbonisation.”
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive
Statistics and commentary from SMMT
Share
Delivering fast, scalable EV charging infrastructure across the UK, Europe and USA. Contact us today to see how can we help
