Electric vehicle sales surged to record levels last month following a big boost from the Government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG), according to the latest Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) figures released today.
The data shows pure electric vehicle uptake grew by 29.1% in September, with 72,779 registrations – that’s the best month on record for Battery EV (BEV) volumes, accounting for 23.3% of the market.
Around 20,000 buyers have made use of the grant and it is available on about 25% of available BEVs, according to the Government.
The scheme launched this summer offers savings of up £1,500 on most cars and £3,750 off two Ford models, with others expected to join the higher ‘Level 1’ listings shortly. There are now 36 models eligible under the grant with more expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The grants have also had the effect of forcing other makers to discount non-eligible models, pushing down prices. Industry data shows upfront costs of new electric vehicles, as compared to petrol and diesel equivalents, have dropped by 14% since last year, with a difference of now £8,229 on average. There has been a knock on effect on used car prices too.
A recent survey commissioned by Renault also revealed 35% of UK drivers said they are more inclined to make the switch as a direct result of the ECG.
Supporting the Government’s commitment to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, the ECG is largely backing UK manufacturers, with eligibility dependent on models meeting manufacturing sustainability standards. Discounts of up to £3,750 are available at the point of sale for new eligible EVs priced at or under £37,000. While the two Fords are currently the only cars which qualify, it is expected that the new Nissan LEAF will join them.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said: “Massive manufacturer investment has delivered a huge choice of more than 140 EV models, from city runarounds to family SUVs, saloons to sports cars, with a typical range of more than 290 miles which is at least double the average weekly drive. The creation of the Electric Car Grant adds another great reason to choose an EV, making many of them more affordable – so it’s no surprise thousands more drivers are now switching on to the benefits of going electric with potentially cheaper running costs, an exceptional driving experience and, of course, greener travel.”
David Farrar, Policy manager for New AutoMotive, sounded a more cautious note, saying: "The Electric Car Grant has sent a strong signal of government commitment to EVs, supporting consumer confidence, the expanding used market and green jobs in markets closer to home. But it isn't yet clear that it's prompting consumers to consider buying cars that they wouldn't have gone ahead and bought anyway. The fund, which looks likely to be spent early, can support a maximum of 400,000 buyers.”
Electrifying’s Ginny Buckley said: “The EV sales figures have been boosted by some deals which make switching to electric a ‘no brainer’ as the leases are far cheaper than a petrol versions. While some are manufacturer backed incentives – such as discounted cars from BYD – the government grants are also having a noticeable effect on registrations. Ford was the first manufacturer to qualify for the full grant and as a result has seen a huge spike in sales for the Puma Gen-E. The company has been vocally resistant in the past to the ZEV mandate – I wonder if they will change their tune now they are having success?”
The new LEAF is expected to get the full grant 
