Rocketing fuel prices have led to a surge in sales of electric cars, according to industry data. In March, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reported the highest number of new car registrations for that month since 2019. This increase in sales, totaling 380,627 vehicles, marks a 6.6% rise compared to the previous year.
The spike in sales was primarily driven by electrified vehicles, with a record-breaking 196,059 units sold. Among these, battery electric cars saw a notable 24% increase, reaching a new record of 86,120 registrations in March. The best-selling model in the UK last month was the Chinese-made Jaecoo 7, marking the brand’s first time holding the top spot and showcasing the growing presence of Chinese electric cars in the market.
Jaecoo, introduced to the UK market in February 2025, experienced a remarkable 570% surge in sales year-on-year, surpassing established brands like Volvo and Tesla. This marks the first time since January 2023 that a Chinese model has topped the UK sales charts. Plug-in hybrid cars also saw a significant uptick in sales, rising by 46.9% to nearly 49,700 units, while demand for hybrid electric vehicles increased by 7.3%.
In contrast, sales of petrol and diesel cars continued to decline, reflecting a shift towards electric and hybrid alternatives. The escalating prices of petrol and diesel, exacerbated by the Middle East crisis, have further incentivized consumers to consider electric or hybrid vehicles as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.
Despite the growing popularity of electric vehicles, industry experts warn that more progress is needed to meet the government’s Zero Emission Vehicle mandate. While electric cars accounted for 22.6% of all sales last month, achieving the 33% target by 2026 remains a challenge. An urgent review of the market transition is advocated to ensure sustainable growth and align with the UK’s net-zero ambitions.
Industry leaders emphasize the importance of adapting to changing consumer behaviors influenced by global tensions and rising fuel costs. Electric vehicles offer a promising solution to mitigate the impact of fluctuating fuel prices, although concerns about affordability and electricity charging costs remain key considerations for potential buyers.
The Department for Transport highlights the record-breaking adoption of electric vehicles, with over 86,000 new EVs sold in March alone. Government initiatives, such as the Electric Car Grant, aim to make EVs more accessible and affordable, encouraging drivers to make the switch to cleaner transportation options amidst ongoing price fluctuations in the traditional fuel market.