If you’ve been scrolling through headlines in 2024, you might have seen a lot of bold statements about the future of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK. With the cost-of-living crisis, price hikes in raw materials, and debates around charging infrastructure, some are wondering if the UK’s love for EVs is slipping. But the reality is, despite the challenges, EV sales are far from “dead.” In fact, they’re moving forward, and there’s plenty of data to show it. Let’s take a look at what’s happening in the UK’s EV market in 2024 and why EVs are still on the rise.
EV Sales Are Up – By A Lot!
Let’s dive right into the numbers. As of September 2024, new data shows that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) made up around 22% of new car sales in the UK. To put that in perspective, just a few years ago in 2019, EVs accounted for less than 2% of new car sales! That’s a huge leap, and it’s still on the up. The overall market is showing that, even with some hurdles, more Brits are choosing electric over petrol or diesel.
In fact, September 2024 was a record-breaking month for EV sales in the UK, hitting around 57,000 BEVs sold in just one month. It’s clear that the demand is there, and it’s growing quickly. The big shift we’re seeing is also in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), which now make up roughly 10% of new car sales. Combined, electrified cars are carving out nearly one-third of the UK’s new car market – a huge chunk!
Charging Infrastructure Is Catching Up
One of the biggest criticisms of going electric in the UK has been the charging infrastructure. With some older headlines painting a picture of stranded EV drivers stuck in queues at charging stations, you might think the UK is in a bad spot. But the reality is that charging points are on the rise.
As of 2024, the UK now boasts over 40,000 public charging points – and that number is set to grow by at least 25% in the coming year. More rapid chargers are being installed along highways and in urban areas, with big players like MFG EV Power, Instavolt, and GRIDSERVE racing to meet the demand. And while there are still areas with fewer chargers, the availability of home charging has made life easier for many EV owners. Installers such as Milebox are making it easier than ever to get a smart EV charger installed at home. According to government estimates, over 70% of EV owners in the UK charge at home, which means they’re rarely dependent on public chargers.
The Government’s 2035 Ban on Petrol and Diesel Cars
Another reason EVs are still going strong? The looming 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales. For the UK, this ban is a big deal. It means anyone buying a new car today might already be thinking about the future, and a petrol car might not look as good as it once did. This future ban is making EVs a more attractive long-term investment, especially since the UK government is actively supporting the shift to electric.
Although there’s been some talk about delaying this ban, the momentum behind it is strong, and manufacturers are preparing to align with this target. More and more carmakers are rolling out new EV models, and by 2030, they expect to be fully electric in the UK market.
EVs Are Becoming More Affordable and Diverse
Price is always a factor, and while electric cars were once seen as a luxury item, that’s quickly changing. In 2024, we’re seeing a wider range of EVs hitting the market at various price points. From affordable models like the MG4 and Nissan Leaf, which have prices competitive with traditional petrol cars, to high-end options from brands like Tesla, BMW, and Audi, there’s something for nearly every budget.
The second-hand EV market is also growing, with thousands of used electric cars now available, making EVs more accessible than ever.
Car Manufacturers Are Fully Committed to EVs
If there’s one indicator that EVs are here to stay, it’s that car manufacturers are all-in on the technology. Brands like Ford, Volkswagen, and Volvo have already pledged to go fully electric within the next decade. Tesla, considered by many to be “the EV pioneer”, continues to dominate the market, with its Model 3 and Model Y topping sales charts in the UK in 2024.
This commitment from automakers is only strengthening as they pivot their production lines toward electric vehicles. New models are hitting the market every year, making the EV landscape more exciting and diverse. From small city cars to SUVs, the options are growing fast, proving that manufacturers see a strong future in electric mobility.
Rising Awareness of Environmental Impact
It’s hard to ignore the effects of climate change, and many UK residents are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint. Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them a cleaner option for the environment, and this has become a powerful motivator for a lot of people choosing to go electric. Plus, cities like London are expanding low-emission zones, making petrol and diesel cars less convenient – and more costly – to drive.
Final Thoughts: EVs Are Thriving, Not Just Surviving
Despite a few bumps in the road, the numbers don’t lie. The EV market in the UK isn’t just alive; it’s thriving. Electric cars are more popular than ever, and while there are challenges, such as charging infrastructure and initial costs, the overall trajectory is positive. With record-breaking sales in 2024, increased government support, and manufacturers pouring resources into electric models, the UK’s EV revolution is well underway.
For those still on the fence about going electric, it’s safe to say that the infrastructure, technology, and market are only going to keep improving. So, while some skeptics might say EVs are hitting roadblocks, the truth is that electric vehicles are speeding forward – and they’re here to stay.
