The UK’s car sales were up over 12% in September off the back of strong growth in EV and plug-in hybrid sales according to the latest figures from car industry body the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders). 

Just under 100,000 electric cars were sold in the month, with a further 60,000 PHEVs finding new homes. Between them they took a 45% slice of the market. By contrast, petrol and hybrid sales were down, while diesel vehicle had a resurgence in the month, up over 10%. 

The Tesla Model 3 was once again the most popular electric car, with just under 10,000 sold, closely followed by its Model Y sibling. The BYD Sealion 7 and Seal were next best with the Kia EV3 rounding out the top five.

September is traditionally a bumper month for new car sales thanks to the number plate change – cars registered between now and the end of next February will carry a 76. The SMMT says it’s the best performance for the month since 2017.

Just under 455,000 electric vehicles have been registered so far in 2026, but the SMMT continues to maintain that EV sales demands through the ZEV mandate are unworkable despite the 26% market share of zero emission cars and the fact that the flexibilities available in the mandate mean that the industry as a whole is outpacing requirements. 

The government is reviewing the current targets in the ZEV mandate, but has committed to phasing out petrol and diesel sales by 2035. 

SMMT boss Mike Hawes said that the UK “still has the world's toughest targets and highest energy costs” but has otherwise embraced the good news of solid numbers for the month. 

“September’s record EV performance is a major achievement,” said Hawes. “Drivers are increasingly embracing the growing choice of models made available and high fuel prices are also undoubtedly giving more consumers reason to consider going electric.”