Sales of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles have surpassed those of petrol-only cars in the UK, reflecting a significant shift in consumer preferences amid rising fuel costs and more competitive electric vehicle pricing. In June 2026, fully electric car sales climbed 35 percent year-on-year to nearly 63,950 units, capturing 30 percent of the new car market. Plug-in hybrids, which primarily operate in electric mode but retain a petrol engine for backup, sold 26,702 units, a 25 percent increase and representing 12.5 percent of the market.

Conversely, petrol-only vehicle sales declined to 84,541 units, accounting for just under 40 percent of the market at 39.7 percent—marking a continuation of the downward trend as buyers gravitate toward electrified alternatives. Traditional hybrid models, which combine petrol engines with self-charging electric batteries, held a 14 percent market share, while diesel vehicles continued their decline, registering only 3.8 percent of new registrations amid regulatory pressure and environmental concerns.

Another noteworthy development is the growing influence of Chinese automakers across the UK market. Models from major Chinese exporters now represent about one in seven new car sales, spanning petrol, electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid categories. MG, a British brand now owned by Shanghai Automotive, secured 4.9 percent of the market last month, outperforming established manufacturers such as Toyota, Kia, and Hyundai. Chery, another Chinese company that recently entered a production partnership with Nissan in Sunderland, accounted for 6.4 percent of sales with its Jaecoo and Omoda models. BYD, China’s largest carmaker, came close to 3 percent market share.

Industry observers suggest the UK market may have reached a tipping point where electrified vehicles have become mainstream, supported by expanding availability in the second-hand sector. However, challenges remain, particularly for the estimated 40 percent of motorists who lack access to low-cost home charging, a factor that may limit plug-in vehicle convenience for some consumers.

Nick Williams, managing director of Lloyds Banking Group’s transport division, highlighted the evolving affordability dynamic. He noted that used electric vehicles have grown roughly 30 percent in the first quarter of the year and are now generally cheaper than comparable petrol models, offering a more accessible entry point for buyers unwilling or unable to purchase new electric cars at full price. He also emphasized the growing cost advantage of electric motoring, noting that petrol prices at the pump had fluctuated by over 20 pence per litre over the past year, while home electricity tariffs for charging have remained relatively stable.